Beguiling people come in all shapes and sizes. Some play a short-term game. Others play for the long-term.
A beguiling person is someone who captivates or charms others through deceit, manipulation, or cunning tactics. They often use their charisma and persuasive abilities to influence people’s thoughts, feelings, and actions to serve their own agenda.
Why is this important to know?
It’s important because the unwary can easily be let in by so-called friendship, favours and small obligations.
The main thing is to be able to spot a beguiling person. Once you have spotted their behaviour for what it is, then you have more control and can anticipate or should we even say outwit them at their game.
I came across someone recently who was friendly in the beginning, warm and pleasant until the person came up with outrageous demands. Soon things deteriorated and now there is no friendly relationship. In fact, the person has become hostile.?
I’ve also spotted someone who plays a long-term game. The person has come in, latched onto to someone close to me and is trying to manipulate from this angle. At least I’m aware now of the behaviour that is being played. This isn’t some innocent game. The intention of the person is to gain benefit from me in the long-term. Fortunately I am aware of their behaviour and have placed measures that will limit or stop this person trying to take advantage.
Spotting beguiling people can be challenging, but there are some signs to watch for:
- Charm Offensive: They may use excessive charm and flattery to manipulate others.
- Manipulative Language: Look out for persuasive language and subtle manipulation tactics.
- Overpromising: Beguiling individuals often make grand promises or commitments they can’t fulfill.
- Lack of Transparency: They may avoid answering direct questions or evade accountability.
- Gaslighting: They may try to make you doubt your own perceptions or memory.
To stop them at their game, it’s important to:
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, listen to your gut.
- Set Boundaries: Be clear about your expectations and don’t be afraid to enforce boundaries.
- Verify Information: Don’t take everything they say at face value; verify facts independently.
- Stay Calm and Assertive: Don’t let them manipulate you into reacting emotionally. Stay calm and assertive in your interactions.
- Seek Support: If you suspect someone is beguiling you, talk to trusted friends or professionals for advice and support.
It’s a pity that there are people like this. But unfortunately it’s a fact of life. While it’s true that some beguiling individuals may primarily be motivated by financial gain, there are other motives that can drive their behavior. Here are some additional motives:
- Power and Control: Some beguiling individuals seek power and control over others. They may manipulate people to gain influence, authority, or dominance in various situations or relationships.
- Attention and Validation: Others may crave attention, admiration, or validation from others. They use their charm and manipulation tactics to garner praise, admiration, or sympathy from those around them.
- Ego Boost: Beguiling people may have a deep-seated need for validation or affirmation of their self-worth. They may manipulate others to boost their ego or sense of importance.
- Emotional Fulfillment: Some individuals may use manipulation tactics to fulfill emotional needs such as companionship, love, or belonging. They may manipulate others into providing emotional support, validation, or companionship.
- Escaping Consequences: Beguiling individuals may resort to manipulation to avoid facing consequences for their actions. They may lie, deceive, or manipulate others to evade accountability or punishment for their behavior.
- Achieving Personal Goals: Beyond money, beguiling individuals may manipulate others to help them achieve personal or professional goals, such as advancing their career, gaining social status, or acquiring resources.
Overall, while financial gain may be a common motive for beguiling behavior, it’s essential to recognize that there can be a variety of underlying motives driving their actions. These motives can vary depending on the individual’s personality, circumstances, and goals. ?
