You can’t convince bullying spouses to change; you’ll never prove that you’re right or should have what you need; you’ll never deserve the rewards they withhold from you. They’re not interested in the truth or in your reasons or your wonderful logic. They’re not interested in loving you the way you want to be loved. They know best and they’re only interested in getting their way; in controlling everything – money, sex, cars, computers, phones, friends, family. So many blog comments are from women wanting to be told that they’re right in their arguments with their husbands; that they should be allowed to do a few things like see their parents or girl friends or have a few dollars for groceries. They seem to think they need to get permission from their controlling husbands to even spend a few dollars of the money they earn. They’re always surprised that their good arguments don’t convince these control-freaks and bullies to change their behavior.
Many coaching clients come or call when they’re stuck in the same endless dynamic. Some husbands say the same things about the controlling wives.
I have to say: Give it up. You’ll never prove anything to someone who doesn’t want to be convinced; to someone who thinks their best interests are served by always being right and always being in charge.
One of the favorite tactics of bullies is to attack. These verbal and emotional bullies are always finding fault and picking on flaws. The natural response at first is for the wives to defend themselves. But that only perpetuates the cycle of attack and defense. There’s never an end to the constant harassment and negativity.
Eventually the women get worn down. They’re too tired to fight about everything, especially the silly little stuff so they give up and accept the bully’s rule. Then they become victims. They accept that it is their fault; there must be something wrong with them.
The bully will destroy their confidence and self-esteem. The stress, anxiety and negative self-talk will lead to depression. They think that if only they were perfect enough, he’d be nice and encouraging and loving.
The solution begins with a difficult realization: When it gets to that point, you’ll never win the argument. You’re being poisoned slowly, there’s no convincing a toxic predator to change and your only hope is getting away.
No matter what the cost, if you don’t get away, the poison will take its effect; your soul will be destroyed. Even if you have to begin from square-one again, you must begin. You’ll need all the strength and courage you can muster. You’ll develop the endurance and skill as you proceed.
Of course it’s hard. When you’re living in the ninth circle of hell, it takes a lot to get out. But that’s what you’re being called to do. Your spirit is calling you to make the effort. Your bright future is calling you to make the journey.
If you have children, don’t see them as an impediment. Let them stimulate you to break out of prison and start a new life as far away as you need.
Of course, if we can catch it earlier, it’s easier to declare and maintain your boundaries. Then it’s easier to demand loving behavior and to get away if the abuse continues.
All tactics are situational. Expert coaching can help you make a plan that fits you and your situation. Expert coaching can help you overcome the voices of your fears and self-bullying. Expert coaching can help you honor the commitments and responsibilities you still want to honor.
You’ll find many examples of children and adults stopping bullies in “How to Stop Bullies in Their Tracks” and “Parenting Bully-Proof Kids,” available fastest from this web site. Or call me for coaching at 877-8BULLIES (877-828-5543).
Of course also, everything I’ve described here is true about harassing, bullying, abusive bosses, co-workers, friends, parents, family, children. How easy is it to convince a teenager who wants something desperately? How easy is it to prove yourself to a rage-aholic parent who thinks you’re bad or will be a loser? How easy is it to convert a know-it-all boss? How easy is it to prove yourself to a parent who loves one of your sisters or brothers more? How easy is it to change a righteous Church Elder?