Humans have been playing mind games with each other ever since the dawn of time. Mind games were used to win wars and bring peace between nations. Today, people use it to make money, build empires, and control the economy.
If only it was solely used for those reasons, then the world would be a much better place. Unfortunately, those of us who don’t see the benefits that mind games offer tend to use it for devious purposes – specifically, relationships.
No one is exempt from this transgression because both men and women are guilty of playing mind games. The motivations differ from person to person, but the goal is always the same – to win. Whatever the prize is, using mind games to acquire it never ends well.
# Instinct
This can save you more times than you can count. Our instincts are borne out of a primal defense mechanism. We know when we’re in danger, and we should always acknowledge that. If we can’t get out of a situation, we should always be wary of what’s happening around us. This is especially important when you encounter a guy who loves to play mind games.
# Self-worthWomen only become susceptible to mind games when they are vulnerable. The most common victims are women with self-esteem or abandonment issues. Players can sniff out these types of women, so you better start appreciating your worth, or else a man who plays mind games might take what’s left of it.
# Never be complacentWhen you see that your guy is taking advantage of you, don’t humor him. Don’t give him anything that he doesn’t deserve, and never compromise yourself or your beliefs just to please him.
# Call him out
When you see that a guy is playing the tricks we mentioned above, don’t hesitate to call him out on it, even if it’s not true. If he continues to guilt you, he’s playing you. If he keeps promising you something he never gives, he’s playing you. Tell him you’re on to him and that you won’t put up with his bullshit.
# Make them prove their worthGirls, it’s okay to make guys jump through hoops. But don’t be a mind game player. Make them prove their worth by allowing them to care for you, prioritize you, and acknowledge you. A good guy won’t take anything away from you. He will simply appreciate whatever you offer and treasure you for it.
# Pace yourselfThe only way to spot a mind game player is by taking your time. Let them show their true colors along the way. A guy who plays mind games won’t stay long when he’s not getting what he wants.
# Never offer tangible resourcesDo not allow your partner to use any of your resources, whether it’s your money, your car, or your house, unless you’ve been together for a long time or you genuinely trust him. You need to go through the motions of the dating process using each other’s resources, or else one or both of you will start being dependent on the other.