When someone manipulates you or makes you question your sanity, they’re gaslighting—playing dangerous mind games.

Welcome to the tangled world of emotional manipulation!

Navigating this isn’t easy, it can feel like being trapped in a mental maze.

But don’t worry, there are ways to fight back!

I’m here to share 8 smart strategies to help you do just that:

1) Establish your boundaries

Boundaries are like an invisible shield.

They protect you from things you don’t want or need, like the manipulation and mind games of a gaslighter.

Setting these boundaries isn’t always a walk in the park, though.

It takes courage and determination, especially when dealing with someone who’s used to having their way.

But you’ve got this.

Remember, your peace of mind is worth more than their satisfaction.

Once you establish your boundaries, stick to them.

This will signal the gaslighter that you’re not a pawn in their game, but a player who knows their worth, and that’s a game changer, right there.

2) Trust your instincts

This one hits close to home for me.

There was a time in my life when I was dealing with a classic gaslighter.

They’d twist the truth, making me question my own perception of events.

I’d find myself believing their versions of events, doubting my own memories and feelings.

It was a scary and confusing period.

Then, I started to trust my instincts.

I realized that this gut feeling, this nagging doubt that something wasn’t right, was my inner voice trying to protect me.

I started relying on this voice, using it as my compass.

It wasn’t always easy, but it gave me the strength to challenge the gaslighter’s version of reality.

This made a world of difference for me.

I realized that my instincts were a powerful tool in this game, one that the gaslighter couldn’t manipulate or control, and that’s how you turn the tables, my friends!

3) Document everything

We live in a digital era where keeping a record of things has never been easier.

Gaslighters are experts at twisting truths and reshaping narratives to fit their agendas.

This is where documenting everything comes in handy.

By keeping track of conversations and events, you’re armed with evidence that can dispute their twisted version of reality.

This isn’t just a strategic move, but it can also be a mental lifesaver.

Did you know that the term ‘gaslighting’ originated from the 1944 film ‘Gaslight’, where a husband manipulates his wife into believing she’s going insane by dimming their gas-fueled lights and denying that they’ve changed?

Just like in the movie, having tangible proof can help you unmask a gaslighter’s manipulative tactics, turning their own game against them.

4) Seek external perspectives

When you’re stuck in the gaslighter’s web, it can be hard to see things clearly.

Everything is clouded by their manipulations and mind games.

That’s why seeking perspectives from outside the situation can be incredibly helpful.

Talk to friends, family, or even a professional.

They can provide an objective viewpoint, helping you see the situation for what it truly is.

Their insights might just be the game plan you need to outsmart your gaslighter.

5) Stay grounded in your reality

This is something I’ve learnt the hard way.

A gaslighter’s main trick is to make you question your reality.

They’ll make you feel like you’re losing grip on what’s real and what’s not.

I’ve been there, and trust me, it’s a terrifying feeling.

But you know what? It’s also the point where I realized that I had to hold on even tighter to my reality.

I started reminding myself that my feelings and perceptions were valid, regardless of how much the gaslighter tried to undermine them.

I made a conscious effort to stay grounded in my reality, not the distorted one that the gaslighter was trying to sell me.

Staying true to your own reality is one of the most powerful moves you can make in this game.

6) Respond, don’t react

It might seem like the best way to deal with a gaslighter is to fight fire with fire, to react to their provocations with equal intensity.

But here’s the twist: that’s exactly what they want.

They feed off your reactions. It gives them the feeling of control they so crave.

Instead, try responding calmly and assertively.

By doing so, you’re taking the wind out of their sails, deflating their power over you.

It’s like playing chess.

A hasty reaction might lead to a quick checkmate, but a calculated response can completely turn the game around.

7) Practice self-care

Dealing with a gaslighter can be emotionally draining.

It’s like being on a constant roller coaster ride, but not the fun kind.

That’s why it’s crucial to take care of yourself.

Prioritize your well-being, both mentally and physically.

This could mean taking out time for hobbies you enjoy, eating healthily, or ensuring you get enough rest.

You can’t pour from an empty cup; by taking care of yourself, you’re not just replenishing your energy but also building up the strength to stand your ground against the gaslighter.

After all, self-care isn’t just about survival, it’s about thriving in spite of all odds.

8) Remember your worth

At the end of the day, the most potent weapon you have against a gaslighter is your sense of self-worth.

Gaslighters prey on those they perceive as vulnerable.

They exploit self-doubt and use it to their advantage.

Hold on to your worth—know that you deserve respect and honesty.

Never let a gaslighter, or anyone for that matter, make you feel otherwise.

Your worth is non-negotiable, and that’s the ultimate checkmate in this game.

Final thoughts

By now, I hope you see that confronting a gaslighter isn’t about winning—it’s about protecting your sanity.

It’s not about gaining control but about demanding respect, honesty, and a clear sense of reality.

When you do that, you’re not just resisting manipulation—you’re standing firm in your worth and refusing to let anyone undermine it.

Remember, as Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

Never give that consent—hold on to your truth—and, most importantly, don’t forget your worth!