Counters Sassy

Dodging snide jabs like a pro!

- Aditi Maheshwari

Ah, passive-aggressive attacks—the gift that keeps on taking. You know, those sneaky, underhanded jabs wrapped in a smile, dipped in sugar, and served with an “I’m just joking!” sauce. If you’ve ever encountered one of these gems, you probably know the feeling of wanting to either flip a table or launch into a soliloquy about how honesty is, in fact, the best policy.

But alas, here you are. Someone has just “innocently” commented, “Wow, you’re so brave for wearing that,” and now you have two options: cry into your coffee or rise like a phoenix armed with wit, wisdom, and a side of sass.

How to Handle Passive-Aggressive Attacks?

Acknowledge the Attack, But Keep Your Cool:

Picture this: You’re in a meeting, and your coworker Karen says, “Oh, I didn’t expect you to actually contribute an idea. Good for you!” Now, the natural impulse might be to hurl a stapler or scream, “Karen, what’s your damage?”

But no. We are dignified. We are classy.

Instead, you pause and acknowledge the attack without falling into the trap. A simple, calm, “I’m not sure I understand. Could you clarify what you mean?” forces Karen into a corner. Suddenly, she has to explain the nastiness that was previously concealed under her passive-aggressive smirk.

And let’s face it: the moment she starts explaining, the power shifts. Because nobody really wants to reveal they were trying to be snide; it ruins the fun. You, my friend, have just disrupted her passive-aggressive ecosystem.

Don’t Take the Bait—But Don’t Let It Slide:

When someone slings a veiled insult, your ego’s natural response is to defend itself. It’s like stepping into quicksand—the more you struggle, the deeper you sink. They’re hoping you'll bite because then they win, and you'll look irrational while they prance away, claiming innocence.