Some people are crazy. Period. Whether it’s a self-fulfilled prophecy or a legitimate disorder, we’ve all encountered these individuals. What I find ironic is that we’re all a little crazy. At some point, someone will say that a behavior, a belief, or even an emotion that you have is “crazy.”
The reality of this life is that we are not going to get along with or like every single person on this planet. Here are two more truths: 1) You can still treat them with love and 2) You don’t have to ride their crazy train.
What’s a crazy train? A crazy train is a metaphorical ride that crazy makers (people who just drive you insane) take you on. It’s purely emotional. They are oh so good at getting you to join in on their ride. They will, if you allow them, drive your emotions, your actions, your reactions, and suck the energy right out of you.
Have you ever had a relationship, regardless of the type, with someone who just seems to live in a universe completely different from yours? You can have the same conversation in the same room with the same people at the exact same time, and yet their recollection of the conversation couldn’t be more different than yours. It’s like every day is opposite day.
I’m willing to bet that you spent an immense amount of energy trying to convince them that they’re wrong and then trying to convince others that you’re right. Taking it to another level, they’ve done the same thing.
The easiest solution to avoid a toxic relationship is to not have one. Take it for what it is, accept them for who they are and who they aren’t, and walk away. If you’re in love with the person, it will be that much more difficult, but the only person forcing you to endure their craziness is you.
But what happens when that toxic person is someone you can’t avoid? A co-worker? A family member? An ex who you share child custody with? It may seem hopeless, but it’s really not; it’s all how you approach the situation. It’ll take time to break the habit because the will undoubtedly still get under your skin. However, it’s all in your control.
Tips to get off their crazy train:
- Don’t relinquish your control to their words and actions.
- Don’t engage in meaningless conversation. Unless it’s necessary, don’t respond.
- If you have to respond, kill them with kindness.
- Make a ridiculous mental picture of them of what they look like on their crazy train. Picture it and laugh before, during and after you encounter them. It will make it much easier for you to not let your emotions get out of your control.
- Pray for them and wish them peace. You know they are suffering.
- Believe in karma but realize that you can’t dose out a helping of karma. That job belongs to the universe. Your negativity breeds more bad karma for yourself.
- Put up an emotional shield and remind yourself it’s their shit. You don’t have to go along for the ride.
The answer is always love. Wish them no harm, but rather that they get the help they need. Pray for your own strength. Meditate to train your mind to be clear and free from negativity. And finally, love yourself enough to not get on the train.