Toxic siblings can have a major impact on your life. They can harm your relationships, interfere with your job and even affect your relationship with your parents. You need to determine how much toxicity you can put up with and set your boundaries. You may need to cut them out of your life completely for the time being in extreme situations. Before going to such extremes, there are some other things you can try first to maintain your family.
Set Boundaries
You need to be clear about what you will tolerate. Once they cross the line in to being toxic siiblings, it is important to let them know this. Some people are completely oblivious to the fact that they are being obnoxious. There are also people who think they are being supportive when they really are not.
Make sure that you let them know what subjects you are unwilling to discuss. For example, you may not want to talk about work, your significant other or your physical appearance with your sibling. If they do bring this up, simply tell them you will not talk about it with them.
Be Able to Walk Away
There may be times where telling them “no” just does not work. This is when you need to just walk away and not engage them at all. Be consistent in your efforts to reach them, but walk away when they cross established lines. There is no need to get into an argument. This will make things worse and can lead to your sibling becoming more toxic than he or she already is.
Be the Bigger Person
There will be times when you want to fire back at their criticisms and comments, but it is important to be the bigger person instead. You must avoid letting yourself get angry. Yes, this is easier said than done, especially when it comes to toxic siblings. If you cannot just walk away, try changing the conversation. Ask about something that will not spark any arguments or controversy. For example, if you and your sibling are both fans of a specific sports team, toss out a question about this team. This should get the conversation back onto a much friendlier track.
Be Clear About Their Role
While it is great to be close to your siblings, this is just not always possible. If you are not too close or if they are just toxic, be very careful about what you share with them. For example, do not give them details about work and your relationships. This just gives them ammo to shoot at you whenever they feel like it. Save your deepest secrets for your best friend or someone you can trust.
Accept and Forgive
This person is your sibling so holding resentment is not a good idea. Being angry will also interfere with your life. You need to accept who and how this person is and move on. It is also important to forgive them for the things they have said and done. This probably will not be easy, but you will feel lighter and more positive when you are no longer mad or resentful.
What are some of your tips for dealing with toxic siblings?
