6 Ways to Cope with Negative People
In the previous post, we looked at how negative people can cope with their own negativity. In the last episode of the Niggling Negativity series in our Beyond Medicine show on Facebook we looked at how friends, relatives and loved ones can cope with a negative person. This blog gives a summary of the tips shared in that episode.
It is usually emotionally draining to regularly be with a negative person. Sometimes, despite knowing how they affect us, we cannot avoid them or have no choice but to be with them. To keep our own spirits up and try to uplift them needs an effort, otherwise it is possible to get dragged down.
Here are 6 tips on how to stay positive with negative persons:
1. Understand the negative behavior. Understanding their negative behavior will help you to be more empathic and have compassion. You may support them without enabling their negativity. You could communicate with them in constructive ways if you understand more about where they are coming from.
2. Set boundaries. Remember, it’s not about you, they may be negative to anyone who listens to them. Try not to take it personally. Nevertheless, setting boundaries is essential for your own well being, as Marilyn explains in her book on boundaries. Communicate your boundaries clearly and ensure that you enforce them.
3. Practice effective communication. Staying calm is important, acknowledging their feelings and providing constructive feedback is also crucial. Expressing your feelings about the negative interaction/conversation instead of calling them out, can be helpful. You can use “I” statements, such as, ‘I feel sad or stressed when negative topics are discussed all the time’. Offer possible positive solutions to their negative outlook.
4. Prioritize your well being. Practice mindfulness, meditation, find fun exercises/activities to do and practice self-love as a foundation for self-care. Set time aside for hobbies or activities that bring you joy. Connect with positive and supportive people as well. These are some solutions you could offer negative persons as well.
5. Know when to walk away. If the above tips do not seem to improve your interaction with negative people, then seriously consider walking away. State clearly your need for space and exit the toxic/negative environment. Remember you deserve to be with positive and supportive people.
6. Create a positive environment. Be with positive people, practice gratefulness, be kind to yourself and celebrate small and major victories. Journal your positives and achievements daily to stay positive.
These are some tips to help us deal with negative people. Share with us your coping strategies.
