The WORD Blog

Overview

This 2017 self-help/business psychology book is a follow-up to Sutton’s earlier work on workplace behavior. Instead of focusing on eliminating toxic people, it provides a practical survival manual for dealing with them in everyday life—especially at work.
The central premise is simple: you can’t always avoid difficult people, but you can control how you respond to them.

Strengths

1. Practical, actionable advice
Sutton’s biggest strength is that he offers clear strategies, not just theory. These include:
• Avoiding or minimizing contact
• Psychological “mind tricks” to stay resilient
• Knowing when to confront—or walk away entirely (SumizeIt)
This makes the book feel like a toolkit, not just a discussion.

2. Evidence-based and research-driven
Unlike many self-help books, Sutton draws on academic research and real-world data, including thousands of personal accounts of workplace mistreatment. (Goodreads)
This gives the advice credibility and helps explain why toxic behavior spreads and affects performance and well-being.

3. Honest and often humorous tone
The blunt title reflects the writing style—direct, witty, and sometimes irreverent.
It keeps a heavy topic engaging and relatable, especially for readers dealing with stressful environments.

4. Emphasis on self-awareness
One of the book’s most valuable insights:
Before labeling others, consider your own behavior.
Sutton repeatedly reminds readers that anyone can be “the problem” sometimes, encouraging reflection and accountability. (University of Rochester Medical Center)

1. Occasional “tough it out” tone
At times, Sutton suggests that readers may need to tolerate bad behavior or develop thicker skin, which can come across as dismissive—especially in genuinely toxic or abusive situations. (University of Rochester Medical Center)

2. Not a systemic solution
The book focuses on individual coping strategies, not organizational change.
If you’re looking for advice on fixing a toxic workplace culture from the top down, this isn’t its main goal.

Key Takeaways

• Not all jerks are equal—distinguish between temporary and chronic offenders
• Distance (physical or emotional) is often the most effective defense
• Toxic behavior is contagious—protect your mindset
• Sometimes the best solution is simply to leave the situation

Overall Verdict

This is a practical, grounded, and often entertaining guide for navigating difficult people. It doesn’t promise to eliminate toxic individuals—but it gives you realistic ways to protect your sanity and maintain control.