The funny and practical guide on how to handle life’s manipulators and avoid being exploited by them, from the Sunday Times bestselling author of Surrounded by Idiots.

Some people are exceptionally manipulative. They can convince anyone about anything and lure them with their charm. They enjoy controlling others and will do anything to get what they want.

The bad news is that you can’t really escape them. But here comes the good news: you can beat them at their own game.

In his inspiring – and, at times, funny – guide, bestselling behavioural expert Thomas Erikson explains how manipulative people exploit our weaknesses and personality traits – and how to protect yourself. Using his famous four-colour model, Erikson shows you how to:

Identify the signs of manipulation early

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  Set healthy boundaries and stand your ground
  
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  Stay calm and confident in toxic situations
  
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  Reclaim your emotional energy and peace of mind
  

Insightful, entertaining and empowering, Surrounded by Psychopaths will give you everything you need to handle life’s most skilled manipulators, identify the psychopaths in your life, and free yourself from their control.

Praise for Surrounded by Psychopaths and Thomas Erikson:

‘Outstanding . . . Erikson impresses with his trademark facility for making research-based discussions accessible and entertaining‘ Publishers Weekly

‘A good resource for understanding how different personalities communicate and deal with feedback…Everyone should read [it] Business Insider

‘Equal parts logical, emotionally astute, and gut-wrenchingly funny…Buy it!‘ Jim McPartlin, author of The Enneagram at Work

‘Everyone can benefit from this book’ Booklist

‘Life changing’ 5-star reader review

‘Has enabled better communication with my peers and colleagues as well as my family.’ 5-star reader review

‘Clear, insightful easy to read book with plenty [of] practical advice’ 5-star reader review