

Songs have a number of ways to hook you, whether through the rhythm, melody, or even lyrics. Few songs have complete universal appeal, yet many find broad audiences and popularity. And while we may disagree with exactly what he meant by a soul (indeed he may be in part responsible for popularising the immortal soul motif), the triangle guy’s claim about music being more than entertainment is worth repeating. It is hard to find out exactly what this philosopher did and didn’t say, invent, or theorise 2,500 years ago, but he is credited with many things.

Don't force the conclusion "He's using you!" on her, and she'll be more likely to listen.The highest goal of music, Pythagoras apparently claimed, is to connect one’s soul to one’s divine nature, not entertainment. Just state the facts as you see them, and let the other person draw their conclusion. When was the last time you two just hung out?" It seems like George only calls you when he needs a ride to work or wants to borrow money. For example, instead of saying, "Sally, I think George is using you," you might say, "I'm worried about you, Sally. How can I tell her without seeming jealous?Īnswer: Well, when you talk to her about it, try to be as non-judgmental and objective as possible. I told this to someone else, but they just assumed I was jealous. Question: I'm not the one being used, but I think my best friend is being used by her other friends. If it's never convenient, or you feel like you're the only one going out of your way, then stop if it bothers you. You don't have to cut the person off completely, and it is okay to be cordial and make small-talk if you happen to run into them.Īnswer: If you like hanging out with them, then only hang out when it's convenient for both of you. If mutual friends inquire about your behavior, just say you have been busy. Get involved in activities that they are less likely to be involved in. Wait a few days or weeks before responding to calls and texts, and disregard personal invitations. Create Distance: Give yourself some space to get used to being away from the person.Avoid falling into a trap by restating your boundaries, and making it less attractive to continuously pursue you. Don't Argue / Avoid the Guilt Trips: A part of refusing to buy into the toxic dynamic is by not arguing or fighting with the manipulator.Ask your friend not to contact you in a serious, straightforward manner. End the Relationship Directly: If you can, avoid having your words misconstrued and used against you by having the conversation in person or over the phone.They didn't respect you in the past so why would they now? Prepare for some pushback as you distance yourself. Realize That It Will Be a Process: The truth is breaking the mental, physical, or emotional hold that somebody has on you is not always easy.Letting Go of a Bad FriendĪfter you've confronted your exploitive friend and identified their behavior sometimes it is necessary to release yourself from the relationship completely. This article gives advice on saying no without feeling guilty. Being able to firmly say no and mean it will also build your confidence and will prevent you from being used in the future. It takes courage to say no and speak your truth, but you'll always feel at peace with yourself when you do.

Sometimes friends don't intentionally use you they just get used to hearing you say yes all the time, so they ask for things and might not be mindful about it. There are scenarios where the problem between you and your friend is simply a matter of miscommunication. Effectively communicating consequences for violations can help disarm the manipulator and lead them towards positive behavioral changes. Deploy Consequences: It may become necessary to determine and assert certain consequences if the perpetrator refuses to accept "no" for an answer and/or insists on continuing to violate your boundaries.Stick Up for Yourself: Be firm, trust your gut, and don't lend excuses or justify your reasoning behind declining to help with any more favors.Allow them a chance to clearly articulate their thoughts and intentions on the matter. Inform your friend that you have noticed an ongoing pattern in the way they treat you. Resist/Be Direct: Stop being baited any further.For example, instead of calling them a "liar," say that you "disagree with their position." Adopt a global perspective, and examine the situation from all angles. Try not to call your friend's character into attention. Anger keeps you from being levelheaded, and that might be a part of your friend's plan. Stay Calm: Be on guard without being defensive.
