If you’re an empath, an optimist or a generally positive person, it’s exhausting when you’re forced to be surrounded with negative personalities – unless you have a surefire way to shield yourself from their self-sabotaging outlooks on life. Here are four different negative personalities to spot and what you can do to ensure you don’t absorb any of their bad vibes.
Chronic anger outbursts
Beware of these people who are prone to become enraged and cause a scene about minor events. If this is a common recurrence, there may be a more serious underlying issue. Chronic anger may be deeply rooted from childhood neglect or abuse. And if not properly cared for, can lead to serious health issues.
Do: Suggest a mental health counselor. It’s normal for people to become angry or frustrated when things don’t go their way, but if you find that they’re constantly making a big deal about trivial things that would normally roll off someone’s back, something’s not right—and they need help.
Doom & gloom
Pessimists will have you believing that nothing in the universe is working in their favor, although they seem to have a great support system, a lovely apartment, a fulfilling job and plenty of food on their table.
Do: Make a list of all of the things you are grateful for in your life every morning or night—especially the simple ones we often take for granted. Ban out the negative thoughts that pessimists will make you believe apply to your own life as well. They’re only trying to make themselves feel better about their own situation. You have everything you need and more.
Not taking responsibility
As we grow older, it becomes easier for us to own up to our mistakes. We’ve matured, become wiser, are a little more humbled and a little too tired to care about “winning” a battle. If you find that a friend or colleague continues to deny that they’re at fault for something they were clearly in the wrong for, they might not be at the same point in their lives mentally as you are.
Do: Accept them but don’t enable them. How will they start making changes if you’re always going to be the one to rescue them or tell them it’s OK? Be direct with them about the consequences that irresponsibility has and show them the firsthand benefits of owning up to your actions
Someone who keeps themselves small
As human beings, we are constantly improving ourselves and evolving new thought patterns. If you know people who like to keep themselves small and stay within their comfort zone, it may be best to expand your inner circle or find new people to bring in.
Do: Go to different Meetup groups, network with inspiring people, explore new cities or countries, and attend some seminars. Build your life and knowledge outside of your own little bubble. Befriend people who will challenge you as well as themselves (in a good way). You’ll be amazed at how much you’ll learn and grow from them. You are the company you keep.
