Since I wrote this post I have something to add as Ftl is online media, I should make mention of cyber-irrational irrational people. In digital media, -more later-
How to recognize Irrational People
There are Three Stages of irrationality:
Stage 1- People in this stage are salvageable; however, they are irritating, and it takes patience to reason with their illogical, inconsistent, tangential thought process that borders on lunacy. If you value this person, then take time to explain; you may be pleasantly surprised.
Stage 2 – Here is the dividing line—the point at which you run, and run fast. People in this stage are noticeably unpleasant, unreasonable and arrogant—those who love to pontificate about nothing. If forced into contact, lower your stress by minimizing contact and know they are not reliable. They are usually not salvageable, especially, if you value your own sanity.
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Limit contact with these people;
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Don’t rely on them. While this means more work, it’s well-worth the reduced stress.
Stage 3 – Avoid! People in this stage are very dangerous and sociopaths. They are toxic, and capable of anything. They are like powerful vacuums that suck the very life from you. Minute contact inevitably leads to more destructive interactions until you are too lifeless to resist. People in Stage 3 destroy lives, they are perpetual takers, and master deceivers who only give illusions.
When I find myself saying the same thing in ten different ways, and the other person has ten different interpretations each attacking me, all making no sense and not connected to the conversation, I know this is an irrational conversation going nowhere. Hopeless….
My default: quickly end the conversation. Time is too precious!
Revised 11/30/14
