Influence

When I was 14, my father gave me a book called "Influence: How and Why People Agree to Things". It demonstrated when one is being manipulated, with the presumed goal (I don't think I ever finished the book) of being able to stop oneself from being manipulated, and ultimately, manipulate others.

Well, it worked. The first part did. I was able to learn and apply just enough of the book's contents to identify when I was being manipulated, whilst having absolutely none of the confidence or skills to prevent or stop the manipulation from happening. I simply became aware of the specific chain of events that led to my being a doormat.

Anyway, I'm cleaning someone's garage this weekend.