5 Ways to deal with that annoying person in your life

Photo credit: Matt Halton

Sometimes there is someone in your life that you just can’t handle. This person might be a coworker, live in your apartment building or be in a class you’re attending. I have had this happen to me multiple times in my life, therefore, here are my top four hints to dealing with annoying people.

1. Try to ignore them.

I once had a person who I lived next door to, had class with and worked at the same place. To call this person unpleasant would be an understatement. I did the first thing anyone would do in that situation — try to get away — but that was not an option. I learned it was best not to engage them, but just not respond to comments as much and phase them out of a conversation.

2. Let a superior or someone know.

I once worked with a coworker who would try to get involved in everything, even if it didn’t involve them. They would pester me and others in the office every single day. Work wouldn’t get things done. I learned to avoid the office. I was able to tell my supervisor, and they took care of the problem.

This may also happen to you. If there is someone who interrupts class or monopolizes the conversation, tell the professor and they can help you out.

3. Be direct yet polite with them.

If there is someone who can’t take a hint, they are either oblivious or they just don’t care. I tend to be blunt sometimes, but I have found that it can help. Make sure to say things like, “Stop, I don’t want to talk about that,” or “Please leave my house now.” When dealing with someone, make sure to be direct so then they can’t feign ignorance.

4. Don’t stoop to their level.

Often someone who is annoying can be malicious. They may lie about things that happened or play the victim. Have faith that the situation will sort itself out, and don’t retaliate to their provocations. Like the old saying goes, “When you play with pigs, you end up in the mud.” Make sure you don’t become like that one person you dislike the most.

5. Watch this video of puppies.

This can always help when people get on your nerves (see online version for video).

— Riley M. Thompson is in the Huntsman School of Business and is the marketing manager for Aggie Radio and the Utah Statesman. He claims to be the No. 1 Disney fan at Utah State University and will challenge anyone who says otherwise. Contact him on Twitter @RileyMthompson.