"Never try to control a controlling person. It takes one to control one."
Know anyone you consider bossy or controlling? Below are six basic behaviors often experienced as controlling.
______1. Pushing to be helpful.
______2. Insisting they have the best answer.
______3. Pressing you to consider all options.
______4. Interrupting and being outspoken.
______5. Needing to prove they are smarter than you.
______6. Acting driven to be right.
So, think about who is on your bossy list. Review the list above and mark:
• (0) for characteristics that do not fit the difficult person
• (+) for descriptions that apply sometimes
• (++) for the items that often fit
Evaluate your responses. Identify which characteristics are most descriptive. Here are two common clusters.
Cluster A (1, 3, and 4)
She may be less bossy than she seems – especially if you consider her:
• a helpful busybody
• an incurable brainstormer
• excessively talkative
Persons with this cluster of traits often do not realize how they are coming across to others. They have the best of intentions and feel obligated to help and share what they know. Usually, they are more focused on their skills, rather than on any negative reflection on your capability. To their thinking, their mind (ideas, thoughts, feelings…) is a terrible thing to waste.
Cluster B (2, 5, 6)
Are these three behaviors more descriptive of him? Does he typically:
• discount your ideas and opinions as ridiculous?
• keep repeating himself because if you only could understand you would agree?
• get on his iPhone to find proof, to force you to admit he is right (which, of course, makes you wrong)?
These behaviors are reflective of his higher opinion of himself and lower regard for you.
Both clusters indicate a deficit in interpersonal boundaries. With predominantly Cluster A folks, try politely acknowledging the intent to be helpful, say "thank you" or "I'm good" – and that you do not need suggestions. Or announce in advance that you are not seeking feedback. These comments may help you maintain personal space.
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