Have you ever had to deal with someone who is manipulative and loves to cause trouble? Every office or school has a troublemaker, and causing drama is their unique calling. Having to deal with a troublemaker can make you not want to attend an event, work, or school.
Troublemakers like to stir up controversy by spreading gossip and starting rumors about people, and then they turn around and act all innocent, claiming they were only trying to help the situation.
Here are a few snappy comebacks to let the troublemaker know you are onto them and their manipulative behaviour.
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What to say to a troublemaker
- Congratulations on your ability to create drama out of absolutely nothing.
- Don’t tell me what they said about me, tell me why they were so comfortable saying it around you.
- I see you brought your extra large spoon to stir up trouble.
- You don’t like drama? Funny how your name comes up as executive producer on every single episode around you!
- I am returning your nose. I found it in my business.
- Stop creating a drama and then complaining about it.
- It is actually pretty easy not to be an unkind human being. Try it sometime.
- So, let me get this straight, you talk about me then you make it into MY problem when I say something.
- If drama follows you wherever you go. Maybe you are the drama.
- You can only play the victim so many times before people figure out that you’re the problem.
Definition of a troublemaker
A troublemaker is someone who enjoys stirring problems, often intentionally. And they will try to be creative about it, by being argumentative, confrontational and disruptive.
It’s going to be tough spending time with a troublemaker, so be prepared for some drama.
How to deal with a troublemaker
Before you get into trouble yourself, you should pay attention to these tips and deal with that trouble-making fellow, ASAP.
1. Set boundaries with a troublemaker
You have to create some space between you and other people.
This line that you created is where you set your limits. Then, you communicate it to everyone around you. You should let the troublemaker know how their actions are affecting you and the consequence it entails.
2. Don’t engage in the behaviour
If you see something awful or toxic, don’t try to act cool and participate in said behaviour. You have to set an example and be responsible with your own actions.
Instead of fighting or acting like them, you can talk them out of doing something that’ll get them into trouble.
3. Communicate effectively
Perhaps, the simplest yet effective way of handling a troublemaker is talking to them.
The trick is to be open about your feelings and express them clearly. Also, you get to hear the views of the other person.
This is you trying to understand where they’re coming from and work out how to alter that behaviour from there.
4. Find common ground
Find something of common interest that will create a more positive environment.
The reason for this is to reduce friction and at the same time, conjure space where a troublemaker can communicate with you effectively.
5. Seek support
In these tough times, you need to have some positive energy in your life. Spend time with the people who put your best interest at heart because that will help you cope with the situation.
Or you could seek therapy and counseling, if things get out of hand.
The hardest part of being around a troublemaker is walking away from them. Of course, you want to be there, showing kindness and love. However, there are situations that won’t make that work.
At some point, you’ve got to learn to prioritize your well-being, and that isn’t being selfish. You can’t do good to anyone if you’re harming yourself in the process.
WANT TO BE ABLE TO SPEAK UP FOR YOURSELF?
Our FREE Starter Guide will show you the 3 simple steps you can take right now to stand up for yourself so that you can feel confident. It’s a game changer–get it free for a limited time!
More top ten comeback lists you might like
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Kevin O’Leary is known for being a troublemaker
Kevin O’Leary, a businessman, author and television personality is known for being a troublemaker and insulting guests on his show. He has appeared on The Lang and O’Leary Exchange, Dragon’s Den and Shark Tank.
On the Lang Leary Kevin reaches a new low as he badgers a 14-year-old Rachel Parent in a debate regarding GMO food labeling. Kevin is patronizing doesn’t acknowledge her point that there should be responsible testing of GMO and non-GMO products.
Famous people accused of being a troublemakers
It’s such a shame that these people got into trouble so much that it affected their careers.
Anyhow, we wish these celebs well and hope they get better.
1. Lindsay Lohan
Lindsay Lohan used to be Hollywood’s “teen queen” until she got into troubles, one after another. She was hanging out with the wrong crowd and was in a frequent battle with herself and the authorities.
2. Shia LaBeouf
The moment Shia LaBeouf starred in the movie “Transformers” showing his acting chops and undeniable charisma, everyone thought he was the next big thing.
Well, for a while he was, until his behaviour and public outbursts got the better of him.
3. Justin Bieber
So talented, so famous and so young; Justin Bieber is the epitome of success and still is.
But since his rise to fame, the global superstar has been involved in a series of bad decisions. He had troubles with friends, fellow celebs, neighbors, and the authorities.
Just because you had one bad decision and another, it doesn’t mean you can’t turn over a new leaf. You can turn things around.
And for people dealing with a troublemaker, you have to show empathy and understanding. Instead of kicking them when they’re down, a little genuine motivation from someone can go a long way.
Spread that love within you and inspire some healing.
The role of counselling and self-care
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When you are dealing with troublemakers who are manipulative and love to cause trouble and you find it stressful, consider getting support from a professional. Talking to a counselor is a great way to work through a challenging situation, and help you find some strategies to work through the person’s behaviour.
Better Help is a great resource where you can talk to a counselor from the comfort of your own home.
Taking care of your own needs isn’t selfish, and you will feel better in the long run.
