4 Ways to Rid Your Life of Negativity
by Samantha Coogan, MS, RDN, LD
No Gossip
You won’t agree with everyone on every issue. They’re called opinions for a reason. Now, just because someone doesn’t see things the same way as you doesn’t give you a right to gossip about them. And definitely don’t start spreading false rumors about them. Your demeanor and what you portray to the rest of the world will determine your own happiness. If you give out negativity, you will be surrounded by it. People thrive on negativity, don’t give them any fuel to do so. So brush it off and move on.
Stop Complaining
If a situation is already undesirable, what good does further complaining about it do? Most likely, everyone notices on their own that the appetizers are a little dry and under-seasoned. No one needs you to vocalize it, nor announce it to every party goer. A host has enough pressure as it is making sure all ends are tied down before the event starts, but life happens and not everything will go perfectly. So give them a break.
Don’t Be Co-Dependent
This is probably most relevant for romantic relationships, but it can extend to every relationship you encounter. Have your own mind and set of thoughts. Don’t depend on someone else to make you happy. If someone is venting, let them vent. Don’t add to their disdain, it really won’t help any and will only make them even more angry with the situation at hand. Instead, be positive and use phrases like “You have every right to feel that way. How can you fix it?” or “Some people are just that way, but let them stay at that level while you rise above.” Yes, you may agree with every disdainful thing they’ve vented about, and let them know you support them, but further beating the horse won’t help too much. And if you are the one doing the venting, don’t allow for additional dialogue by prefacing it with “I just need to vent really quick. Can you just listen and give me unbiased advice?” This may form a greater solution.
Don’t Portray the “Holier Than Thou” Attitude
First of all, get over yourself. And you’ll need this attitude towards those who are exhibiting this behavior. Give them a reality check. Don’t criticize someone for something that you do yourself. Don’t be a hypocrite. Don’t belittle people and don’t act as if your opinion is the only one that matters. Narrow-minded people rarely get very far in life.
