By Robert I. Sutton
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Identify idiots early. The sooner you can identify an idiot, the sooner you can start to protect yourself from them.
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Don't try to change idiots. Idiots are not going to change, so don't waste your time and energy trying to do so.
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Don't take idiots personally. Idiots are not attacking you personally, they are just being idiots.
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Set boundaries with idiots. Don't let idiots into your life if you don't have to.
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Don't argue with idiots. It's a pointless exercise.
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Don't try to explain yourself to idiots. They won't understand.
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Don't try to reason with idiots. They are not reasonable people.
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Don't try to please idiots. They are impossible to please.
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Don't expect idiots to appreciate you. They don't have the capacity to do so.
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Don't let idiots ruin your day. They are not worth it.
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Don't become an idiot yourself. It's easy to do, but it's important to remember that there is no excuse for bad behavior.
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Learn to laugh at idiots. It's the best way to cope with them.
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Don't take yourself too seriously. Idiots will try to make you feel bad about yourself, but don't let them.
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Remember that you are not alone. Everyone has to deal with idiots at some point in their lives.
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Be kind to yourself. Dealing with idiots can be stressful, so make sure to take care of yourself.
Sutton's book is a humorous and insightful guide to dealing with idiots. It is a must-read for anyone who has ever had to deal with a difficult person.
I hope these lessons help you to deal with idiots effectively and to protect yourself from their negative influence. NNL.
