Why would you navigate through people?
Because I feel, sometimes the tides can be rough and its always good to know your way through them. http://themindunleashed.org/2014/07/8-ways-protect-emotional-manipulation.html is a great place to start. Also, I am reminded of how some people through their absence give you happiness and peace of mind. The more you keep away from them, you will find your life blossoming. Just like, how association with some people give you immense joy and happiness.
As Ambika once told me, you must brace yourself for a life when even in the direst circumstances you can keep calm and move forward. The knowledge I acquire and the practice I do, I am hoping all that will help me in this regard.