Bus Drivers: Protect Your Sanity—Gaslighting at Work is Real!

Have you been in a conversation that left you so confused, you wondered if your brain just rebooted? That’s the magic of gaslighting—making you doubt yourself so much that you start apologizing for things you know you didn’t do. And if you happen to be an empathic person, like me, buckle up, because gaslighting hits us differently.

What Makes Empathic People a Gaslighter’s Favorite Snack?

Empathic folks aren’t just nice—they feel things deeply, pick up on subtle emotional shifts, and genuinely want to help. But here’s the catch: gaslighters love this. Why? Because when they twist the truth, empathic people try to find their fault in the situation instead of calling out the manipulation. It’s like emotional Jenga, and the gaslighter keeps yanking out the blocks while you scramble to keep everything standing.

Signs You’re Being Gaslit (And Not Just “Overreacting”)

If you keep wondering, Am I crazy, or did they just rewrite history?, here are some signs gaslighting is working its dark magic on you:

• You apologize for things you shouldn’t – You say “I’m sorry” more than a Canadian in a grocery store.
• Your confidence takes a nosedive – You used to trust your gut; now, you’re debating whether the sky is actually blue.
• You over-explain yourself – Instead of simply saying no, you write a novel trying to justify your feelings.
• You feel exhausted after interactions – Every conversation feels like a mental gymnastics competition where you never win.
• You start blaming yourself – Even when someone treats you like garbage, you wonder if it’s your fault.

How to Gaslight-Proof Your Sanity

Now that you know the signs, let’s talk survival. Here’s how to keep your mental peace intact:

🚫 Trust your gut – If something feels off, it is. Period.

📌 Keep receipts – Save messages, take notes, and keep a journal. Gaslighters hate evidence.

👯 Phone a friend – A reality check from a sane person is worth gold.

🛑 Set boundaries – No, you don’t owe anyone endless explanations. “I’m not discussing this” is a full sentence.

💪 Work on self-trust – Gaslighters make you question yourself. Rebuild your inner confidence, one decision at a time.

The Bottom Line

If someone is constantly making you feel small, confused, or “too sensitive,” it’s not you—it’s them. Recognizing gaslighting is the first step in breaking free. And once you see it, you can’t unsee it.

Remember, you’re not here to be someone’s emotional punching bag.

You’ve got better things to do—like live your best, gaslight-free life.