manipulating survival skill

[dalin]

Without understanding our motives, we can easily lapse into behavior
aimed at manipulating others. Sulking is a means of letting others
know we are displeased and forcing them to attempt to win our
approval. Flattery is a false expression of approval that we don't
really feel - giving others good strokes for our own purpose.
Withholding deserved praise is a means of putting others down,
something we're likely to do because of our jealousy.

Manipulative behavior is almost always selfish behavior. It is
usually a false means of trying to get our own way. It is certainly
an immature way of dealing with people and situations.

The best way to avoid being manipulative is to be ourselves at all
times. We have neither the right nor the responsibility to control
or regulate other people. Our best approach, in trying to influence
another's actions, is simply to state our own case with sincerity
and honesty. Others must be free to act, free to choose, and free to
make their own decisions without manipulative interference on our
part.

I will be myself at all times today. I will not assume false roles
simply for the purpose of bending others to my own will.
Manipulative behavior is controlling behavior, which I must avoid.