The "Duck Rule" or how to protect yourself from dangerous, envious and toxic people:

 

Has it ever happened to you? You meet someone... and something inside you contracts. They make you uncomfortable. They make you tense. They make you alert. Without explanation.

You've been in situations where this person has made you doubt yourself. They've said things that have stuck in your memory. You've heard negative opinions from other people that seemed completely justified.

If we add up all these “I think” and “I think” statements, we get a whole basket – even a cistern – full of all sorts of negativity, toxicity and darkness. And yet, even in such circumstances, one can still not trust one’s own ears, eyes and feelings.

You start to doubt. To convince yourself. To justify it:

– Maybe I'm suggesting to myself…
– It's not right to think badly of someone…
– Everyone deserves a second chance…
– Maybe he'll change…

And then? You can start to be friends with him by force. To convince yourself that he is trustworthy. To tolerate his closeness, even if with an inner protest.

Why do you do it? Because you don't want to offend him. Because you don't want to look bad in other people's eyes. Because you're not sure about yourself. And he - ah, he behaves so well, calls you friend, throws powder in your eyes and plays a good role.

And this is where the “duck rule” comes in. In order to avoid being victimized by such people in your environment, it is important to remember the “duck rule.”

Very simple and clear. Here is how it reads:

"If something looks like a duck, quacks like a duck, swims like a duck - it's probably a duck."

There is nothing simpler than that.

1. The most accurate answers are often the simplest

Don't look for complexity where the truth is already staring you in the eye. There's no point in walking a dark and dangerous path when there's a bright and safe one right next door.

2. Trust yourself

Your feelings, thoughts, and emotions are sufficient grounds. You don't need anyone else's confirmation. Your judgment is valuable and completely sufficient.

3. Don't overthink it.

If you already have a feeling, memories and facts – that is enough. You don't need to look for excuses. You don't need to give chances that weren't asked for.

4. Be careful. Don't experiment on yourself.

Sometimes the choice is simple: either self-respect and security – or doubts that eat away at you. Bet on yourself. Common sense must prevail.

5. It doesn't just seem that way to you.

It is useful to remind yourself of this truth sometimes. If something feels wrong to you, there is a reason. This opinion and these emotions did not arise out of nowhere. This feeling comes from your experience, from your maturity, from your deep understanding of people. Trust it.