I'm with Tmommy, in that I think you've extended the idea of compartmentalization outside of what I use it for.

Psychological compartmentalization is usually a form of self-deception, in my way of thinking. In situations where I choose what subjects to stay away from while interacting with certain people, I'd call that something else for sure. No need for a fancy word, maybe just "avoiding unnecessary and unproductive conflicts."

I think in social situations, where we don't invite friends of ours who can't abide each other to the same events, isn't compartmentalizing them. That's more like sorting or segregating.

I also wouldn't use "compartmentalize" to refer to what soulfie talked about, where I purposely delay my responses to events. Since "compartmentalize" in it's primary meaning, refers to a person who locks information away from their own awareness, it doesn't work for purposeful delays in order to work up the best response.

But I'm certainly with you overall, in the tremendous usefulness of mindful sorting and organizing.

Since the game is amateur psychology lets add rationalize and denial too

look at someone and see them for all that they are

strengths, weaknesses, flaws, quirks, positives and negatives

and then decide for yourself

whether you choose to spend time with them or not


nothing amateur about it

You can get into a lot more trouble with a rash reaction Max.

Believe that lol

Amen sista :-)
I also put a hold on angry phone calls until I have
tossed them around a while..just to make sure :-)

Compartmentalisation, logic - left mind

Creative, organic, natural - right mind

Holistic, spherical - Higher mind

The best way. You forget most of the things you wanted to say anyway when you're fuming with someone.

Isn't all this just another way of asking, how diplomatic are you?

I stand corrected...stand being the optional word...I may be doubled over in agony, begging for mercy.

In my life, I've found it can be mutually advantageous to keep certain things that complement each other grouped together, and things that don't accessible but separate. The same practice can be applied to relationships with people.

It is possible to value, respect, and acknowledge someone even if their beliefs and or actions aren't compatible with our own. It follows that we can also limit the scope of our interaction with people to where we've found common ground. For example: Like me, a couple of my cousins like to work with their hands making things. Though they both have significantly different worldviews than mine, we still respect one another and occasionally spend quality time together on common ground. This opens up the opportunity to discuss opposing views in a relaxed non-confrontational setting. Which has the potential to expand that common ground.

Unfortunately there are times when I encounter someone whose energy feels toxic. I try to limit my exposure to those that fall into that category.

Hmm.. I have a little a compartment for everything..lol... I have a very nice old roll top desk.. has lots of compartments in it....lol..

Yep Waterloo.

And compartmentalising your feelings from the immediate situation can actually circumvent a rash and regrettable reaction :)


I once had a rash that was a reaction to... never mind this is a PG13 website. In any case, rash reactions can definitely be a problem.

Yep ! Making a distinction between the energy of others, that is incompatible with yours, as opposed to that which is toxic is crucial in deciding whom we should keep in our circle and those we should eliminate.

Well said and welcome back Techno!