“Loyalty means nothing unless it has at its heart the absolute principle of self-sacrifice.” Woodrow Wilson
Being victim to backstabbing is downright painful. Backstabbers put on fronts that appear accommodating, loyal and even sacrificial. Then, without warning they strike. There’s many reasons why backstabbers act as they do. They’re selfish, have a lack of self-esteem and a sense of powerlessness. They’re also likely hiding feelings of inadequacy and feel resentful of what you have that they don’t. Whatever the cause, there’s no good or right reason to be a backstabber.
Sometimes, having a backstabber in your life is unavoidable. You or your spouse may work with one, or perhaps a close friend associates with one and you find yourself crossing paths from time to time. Does this mean you are doomed to be a victim? No. There are several things you can do to disarm backstabbers before they strike, and we are sharing those tips today.
1. WATCH YOUR BACK
This may seem obvious, but it’s pertinent. If you suspect a backstabber is running loose around your office or close circle of friends, then be cautious with the things that matter most to you. Be careful who you share your deepest thoughts with. Only share personal matters with those who have proven to be trustworthy in your life. Remember, backstabbers can be sneaky, slick and seductive. They may seem like just the person to share your secrets with – that’s the way they want it.
2. STAND UP FOR FELLOW VICTIMS
When you see backstabbing happen to someone else, try to stop it. A coworker may say to you “Tom makes a mess of every sales meeting he attends.” What’s your impulse? If you are like many, you may want to chime in with some of your own negative thoughts about Tom. But if you want to help curb backstabbing, then resist the temptation. Say firmly that you don’t agree. Or point out something good about the person who is being backstabbed. After all, someday you may need Tom, or someone else, to do the same for you.
3. BUILD A NETWORK OF TRUST
One of the most important preventative measures you can take is to make a favorable impression on the people and relationships around you. This goes for co-workers, friends, family and beyond. Support these people in your life and show your loyalty as well.
It’s also important to have a trustworthy confidant, a person who can act as a mirror and reflect the truth. You can ask this person “does it seem to you that so-and-so is trying to make me look bad?” Your confidant will be able to shoot straight and let you know if you are being paranoid, or if real danger is on the horizon.
4. LET GO OF REVENGE
Lastly, it’s important to remember that revenge never gets you anywhere good. It’s understandable to still feel pain if you’ve been backstabbed in the past. But storing up pain and plotting revenge will eventually punish you more than it does the backstabber. So, do yourself a favor and let go of revenge.
Remember, if you have been backstabbed in the past, or if you fear it’s on the horizon, there are ways to move on gracefully and avoid being victim. Make the best of your life and enjoy yourself to the fullest. Don’t seek revenge. After all, living life well is really the best route to take.
Have you or your spouse been victim to backstabbing? How did you overcome this, and what did you do to protect yourself in the future?
You Are Not the Only One 