Be aware that if in fact, the anger or negativity directed at you really is your fault, you would be getting these same reactions from other people in your life as well. If many people are indeed angry at you or criticizing you about the same things in your life, then it’s possible that you really may be partially to blame. You should then take a good look at yourself to see what you can do to remedy the situation and plan to do better in the future. Don’t go around with a guilt trip weighing you down, you’ll only spread more negativity yourself!
Spearheading the Situation
Obviously, it’s best to try and avoid negative people as much as possible. Unfortunately, it’s not always so easy, especially if the person dispersing the bad vibes is your spouse or roommate. But in other situations, it may be easier than you think. If you’re at a family reunion and you know your uncle is a big criticizing nitpicker, try to keep away from him as much as you can! Don’t agree with him in his nitpicking or try to defend what he’s criticizing. You’ll just be adding fuel to the fire!
The next time someone gets angry at you, criticizes, or starts to pick a fight, take a moment to reflect objectively on the situation. Instead of automatically reacting with your own anger, take a deep breath and attempt to respond calmly.
Resolve to not let anyone destroy your positive mood or warp your perspective. Be forewarned though that if you decline to react to a negative person, responding with calmness instead, they will most likely magnify the intensity of their assault, and try to drag you down to their level. The best plan for handling this is to tell them that you can discuss things further after you’ve both calmed down, then walk away to diffuse the situation.
Gloom-mongers are another story. When somebody attempts to extend their somber mood to you, you might be truly touched by their sadness, but that doesn’t mean you have to wallow in it if you don’t want to. Resolve not to let it drag you down. It’s perfectly possible for you to respond compassionately and be there for other people in their grief or assist them with their problems without becoming gloomy yourself.
