Don’t Let Negativity Bring You Down: Tips for Staying Positive

Many of us have people in our lives who bring us down with their negativity. Even if you try to be an upbeat person most of the time, it can be draining to be around these types of people. You may start to second guess yourself on important decisions you’ve made, feel uncomfortable, or sad. You may even start to take on negative qualities yourself because negativity tends to breed negativity. 

Normally, you can choose to walk away from these toxic relationships, but sometimes you can’t avoid the person or still want them in your life. They may be your boss, coworker, family member, or someone you share a child with.  

Here are some ways to deal with negative people in your lives:  

1. Remain in power of your emotions 

People with pessimistic attitudes can make you feel cynical, but allowing them to make you feel this way gives them too much power. You’re in charge of your mood, so don’t let anyone else ruin it.  

2. Kill them with kindness 

Don’t engage in conflict or drama. If someone always gives you backhanded compliments or constantly complains, don’t be tempted to clap back. Instead, respond with a positive remark to redirect the conversation, which sends them the message that their negative comments are falling on deaf ears and you won’t feed into their negativity.  

3. Don’t take it personally 

Some people who are dealing with issues in their personal lives take it out on others. On the other hand, some people don’t have a reason for their mood and are just negative by nature. It’s important to remember this isn’t about you. If they’re harsh with you, odds are they’re like that with everyone else.  

4. Change your mindset 

Try sympathizing with this person and imagining what they may be going through that’s negatively affecting their attitude or behavior. They may be dealing with a crisis, such as a divorce, death of a loved one, or having family issues. It may also be high levels of stress, a recent disappointment, or any number of things.  

We are all on different journeys and go through tough times in our lives. Think back to when you were dealing with an issue in your life. You would’ve wanted people to try to understand you, right?   

“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” ~Wendy Mass

5. Focus on your blessings  

Make a list of everything you’re thankful for. Seeing everything written out on paper can really put things into perspective and remind you what’s important in your life. 

6. Spend time alone  

Take time to process how you’re feeling. You may start off feeling angry at this person, but you’ll need to shift your mindset so you can refocus on being positive. To release any negative energy, you can engage in solo activities such as taking a walk, writing in a journal, or meditating. It could even be something simple like sitting at your coffee table enjoying a cup of coffee.  

7. Be honest with them 

It may help to pull the person aside and let them know how their comments affect you. This may be difficult to do, but you could find that they didn’t even realize what they were doing, or they’ll hopefully be more mindful of their behavior when they’re around you. Regardless of the outcome, take pride in knowing you took control of the situation by expressing your feelings.

How do you try to stay positive when faced with negativity?