How to Avoid Being Manipulated by PUA in Your Career or Life

There are all kinds of people in this world! If someone keeps trying to manipulate you by pointing out these traits or labeling you, just flip the script with these responses:

Introverted or unsociable? – When someone says you’re reclusive or not a team player, simply say you’re independent and self-reliant.
Overly dependent? – If they claim you rely too much on others, say you’re excellent at collaborating.
Broke? – If you’re short on cash, say you have enormous potential to build wealth.
Materialistic? – When accused of caring only about money, claim that you’re highly driven in your career.
Hindsight genius but clueless beforehand? – If they say you’re only smart after the fact, reply that you’re great at learning from your experiences.
All talk and no action? – When criticized for poor execution, say you excel at strategic planning.
Poor at noticing details? – If they point out your lack of observational skills, assert that you know how to focus on what’s important.
Easily distracted? – When accused of browsing random news all day, explain that you’re just keeping up with developments across various fields.
No standout qualities? – If you’re told you blend into the crowd, say you’re modest and low-key.
Too flashy? – If they claim you’re overly confident or boastful, simply say you’re confident.
Scattered focus? – When criticized for dabbling in too many things, say you’re curious with a wide range of interests.
Lacking personal hobbies? – If someone points out that you don’t have many passions, say you’re capable of deep focus without getting sidetracked.
Emotionally sensitive? – When labeled as having a “glass heart,” reply that you’re skilled at perceiving changes in your environment.
Emotionally unresponsive? – If you’re seen as dull or insensitive to change, say you maintain a stable mindset.
Stubborn and dismissive? – When accused of not listening to advice, say you’re firm in your beliefs.
Indecisive? – If others say you lack your own opinions and are easily influenced, claim that you’re open to constructive feedback.
Speaks without thinking? – When criticized for blurting out thoughts, say you’re sincere and straightforward.
Slow to respond? – If you’re known for long pauses in conversation, say you speak carefully and thoughtfully.
Always daydreaming? – When someone accuses you of letting your mind wander, say you have a rich inner world.
Never thinking? – If you’re told you rarely use your brain, say that you’re pure-hearted.
Bad at everything except eating? – When joked about for excelling only in eating, say that you’re passionate about food and that there’s nothing wrong with that.
Finishes every bite? – If you’re noted for never leaving food behind, say you’re mindful about not wasting resources.
Jack of all trades, master of none? – When accused of knowing a little bit about everything but not excelling at anything, say you have a broad knowledge base.
Only a few quirky habits? – If someone criticizes you for having only a few eccentricities, say you’re deeply focused on your areas of interest.
Constantly failing? – When you’re told you keep failing, reply that you’re resilient and always ready to try again.
Stuck in your comfort zone? – If you’re afraid to step out of your comfort zone, say that you understand your own limits.
Self-destructive? – When accused of giving up on yourself, say you’re good at recognizing your own weaknesses.
Aspirations high but execution low? – If someone says you aim too high without the skills to match, claim that you have high aspirations.
No ambitions at all? – When criticized for lacking drive, simply say you’re down-to-earth.