Introduction

• Brief overview: Discuss the common scenario of workplace behaviors that frustrate you and the importance of addressing them.
• Purpose: Explain how to handle situations where coworkers try to deflect or gaslight you when you bring up an issue.

Scenario Description

• Setting: Describe the context of being part of a review team at work.
• Issue: Outline the specific issue of being excluded from the decision-making process.
• Action Taken: Mention the step you took by emailing the person responsible and copying the entire review team.

The Response and Gaslighting

• Their Reply: Detail the response from the coworker, denying exclusion and claiming no intent to exclude.
• Gaslighting Tactics: Explain how the coworker tried to pivot the conversation and gaslight by changing the narrative.

Your Counter-Response

• Clarification: Describe how you clarified your point by focusing on the actual events rather than intentions.
  • Point One: Emphasize that you were specifically excluded.
  • Point Two: Stress that intentions do not negate actions.

Lessons Learned

• Identifying Gaslighting: Discuss how to recognize when someone is gaslighting or pivoting in a conversation.
• Staying Focused: Explain the importance of staying focused on the facts and not getting sidetracked by intentions.
• Effective Communication: Share tips on how to communicate clearly and assertively in such situations.

Conclusion

• Summary: Recap the situation and the steps taken to handle it effectively.
• Encouragement: Encourage others to stand their ground and address similar issues with confidence and clarity.