Please help me become more assertive. I am neurodivergent and I can’t get over confrontations for weeks even months later as I keep repeating them over in my head so I try to avoid getting into one but today I think I should have said something:
in the lift in a shopping centre with my 7 year old and 9 year old DD. This elderly lady came in and said to my 7 year old “do you ever SHUT UP?!!!” DD was just talking in a normal tone to me. I was really shocked and couldn’t say anything back to her. The elderly lady then turned to me and said “it’s like my bloody husband constant natter” I ignored her and we got off at our level. She said this to my DD as soon as she walked in the lift. My DD was very quiet the journey home and I said to her it’s best to ignore people like that. I feel angry I didn’t say anything, I feel I let my child down. I did say I think “oh my god” when she shouted the words do you ever “SHUT UP” but my brain went blank as I was shocked at her.
Can you please advise me what I should say in situations like this? How round you have reacted? I’m feeling really upset and angry and I know it’s my mind spiralling. Please help me be more assertive for my kids sake.
i also think she might have clumsily been trying to make conversation but what an awful way to strike up a conversation!