Even if you’re an incredibly positive person, there is no doubt that you’ll cross paths with negative people here and there. And, when you have to deal with negative people on a regular basis it can start to become pretty overwhelming. It’s incredible the way negativity can become contagious too – it spreads like wildfire turning people who are normally pretty positive quickly down the road of adverse vibes – and, there’s nothing more difficult to stop.
Whether you’re experiencing this type of negativity at work, amongst your close group of friends, at church or in any activity you participate in – figuring out how to turn it around is essential. No matter what, you have to be the change you want to see and here’s a few ideas for how to deal with negative people who are bringing you down.
How to Deal with Negative People (Without Compromising Yourself)
Try to get to the source. This tactic will often help to make the change that’s necessary to turn things around. When you start to understand why someone is being negative, you can help come up with a plan to fix the issue and find a solution to the problem.
Work with the person to find some aspect of positivity. When you’re dealing with a person who is consistently negative, it gets exhausting – and frankly, you just don’t want to hear it anymore. If you can help that person try to find some inkling of positivity and get him or her to say it aloud, you can help the process of transitioning from negative to positive.
Use the negativity to fuel your own positivity. When the negativity starts to feel like too much to bear, let your frustration be your drive to be even more positive along the way. Find the parts of your own life that are worth talking about, worth sharing with the world and are worth spreading the good vibe. You have the power to be the positivity that people love and you have the ability to fill the room with good vibes. So, don’t wait for it, go for it.
Remind yourself that you’re not the reason for someone else’s negativity. When someone is that inundated with negative thoughts and feelings, it’s often something within his or her own heart that needs to be fixed. Many times you can’t be the person to find that resolve, they have to make a change for themselves – and it can take a long time to see that change occur.
Remember to stay strong in your own convictions. When someone has negative opinions, it’s easy to get sucked in to his or her downward spiral. You often have to remind yourself that your beliefs are what matter and there’s absolutely no reason to become subject to someone else’s pity party. When the negative heat starts to draw you in, stop yourself and walk away. Take a step back and remind yourself that you believe in the power of positivity and you are an independent and strong spirit.
Separate yourself. Surrounding yourself with negativity is not a smart move. Even though it may be sad to walk away from someone who is important to you, sometimes that separation is 100% essential. Don’t be wishy washy. Don’t worry about it. Just walk away and be sure to surround yourself with like-minded, positive people going forward.
Have you had much experience dealing with negative people? Do you think you have the strength to walk away when it’s time?
