Six ways to deal with negative people in your life

By: Nishika

Does other people’s negative energy bring you down? When you’re surrounded by negativity, it’s easy to absorb that energy and start to feel negative yourself, which can be draining and mess with your mindset.

We all know that it’s not always possible to choose our friends or co-workers, but there are ways we can bring positivity to situations and not let negativity cloud our minds.

Here are six ways to deal with negative people so they don’t get into your head:

1. Set clear boundaries: Establish and communicate your personal boundaries, making it clear what behaviours you will not tolerate, and enforce these boundaries consistently.
2. Surround yourself with positive influences: Seek out individuals who uplift and inspire you. Cultivate relationships with people who have a positive outlook on life and can support your goals and aspirations.
3. Limit contact: Reduce the amount of time you spend with negative people. If possible, distance yourself from them physically, or minimise interactions by keeping conversations brief and focused on positive topics.
4. Focus on personal growth: Devote your energy to personal development and self-improvement. Engage in activities that promote positivity, such as pursuing hobbies, learning new skills, or participating in uplifting communities or groups.
5. Practice empathy without absorbing negativity: While it’s important to show compassion, avoid absorbing the negativity of others. Try to understand their perspective, but don’t let it affect your own mood or mindset. Stay empathetic without sacrificing your well-being.
6. Prioritise self-care: Take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Engage in activities that recharge and rejuvenate you, such as exercise, meditation, spending time in nature, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy. Prioritising self-care will better equip you to handle negative influences effectively.

In a nutshell, remember that while we cannot control the wind, we can direct the sail. The only person you have control over is yourself, so focus on your happiness, rise above negativity, and remain positive.