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Toxic Family Members: How to distance yourself from 'toxic' relatives? Gaurang Das reveals 3 surefire ways.
KalamTimes | April 16, 2026 7:39 PM CST

Healthy Boundaries In Family: Arguing over everything, trying to prove yourself right or tolerating someone's abusive behavior is not a compulsion.

 

 

How to deal with toxic family members peacefully?

How to Deal With Toxic Family Members Calmly: Gaurang Das, who retired from his corporate career after graduating from IIT Bombay, believes that almost every family has someone whose behavior is mentally exhausting or negative, whether it's a distant relative or a close family member. But the real difference lies in how you deal with such people. Let us tell you how to deal with them.

How should one deal with such people?

He says that maintaining a relationship shouldn't come at the cost of your peace of mind. Arguing over every little thing, trying to prove yourself right, or enduring someone's abusive behavior isn't a compulsion. Sometimes, responding calmly, handling the situation tactfully, or expressing your views politely when necessary is the best approach. Setting boundaries with family isn't arrogance, but rather a sign of emotional strength and self-confidence.

should avoid getting entangled

The first way is that when someone tries to belittle you, as if you can't achieve anything, instead of engaging in a confrontation, smile and say that you're absolutely right. This makes the other person uncomfortable because they're not expecting your response. When you don't argue, they have nothing left to say and the conversation ends there.

Respond politely

The second method comes into play when people offer unsolicited advice or make comparisons. We often hear, "Look at Sharmaji's son, he's doing so well, and you…" In such cases, you can calmly respond, "Okay, just help me get a similar job." As soon as you ask them to take responsibility, they back off. After that, they'll think twice before making such comparisons again.

Don't show yourself weak

The third and most important way is to avoid showing weakness. If someone repeatedly taunts you or interferes excessively in your affairs, it's important to stop them in polite but clear words. For example, you might say, "Uncle, why are you talking like that?" or "Aunty, please don't talk to me in that tone." When you express your views calmly and confidently, the other person becomes alert. Most importantly, your mental peace and self-respect are in your own hands. Just because someone is part of the family doesn't mean you have to tolerate their bad behavior. Setting appropriate boundaries and maintaining self-respect are the keys to a healthy and balanced life.


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