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How to Stop Negative People from Bringing You Down

How to Stop Negative People from Bringing You Down

Written by Heather Richards

It’s hard to stay positive, especially if you have negative people in your life who want to bring you down. Whether they do it on purpose or not, many people focus on the negative aspects of life and in the process discourage others from following their dreams and goals. If you’re tired of allowing these people to bring you down, it’s time to do something about it. Inspired by the writings of Dr. Eric Amidi, here is one way you can stop negative people from bringing you down:

Ask the right question. According to Dr. Eric Amidi, people who are pessimists often focus on the perceived problems instead of the solutions. A simple but effective way to combat their negativity is to ask them a certain question: “What would you recommend we should do to solve the problem?” This one question will change the direction of the conversation from the negative to the positive; from focusing on the problem to the solution. It even encourages teamwork and allows both parties to work together to come up with a solution to the problem. It might even make the negative person realize that the perceived problem might not be a realistic threat.

So the next time someone negative tries to bring you down, ask the question mentioned above. However, Dr. Eric Amidi reminds readers that there is right and wrong way to ask this question. When you ask, make sure that you ask it without an attitude. Be genuine, kind, and ready to hear the answer.

Three Ways to Feel Happier Right Now

Written by Heather Richards

Who doesn’t want to be happy? Happiness is a wonderful state of mind that most of want to achieve and maintain. But feeling happy is easier said than done. The problem is that most of us are usually preoccupied with thoughts or activities that don’t bring pleasure: day jobs, traffic, chores, the list goes on. Over time, it’s easy to fall into a mindset that doesn’t promote or even acknowledge joy or contentment. But there are ways to feel happier in the moment no matter what’s on the to-do list. So if you’re feeling particularly unhappy or stuck in a negative mindset, don’t fret. Here are three ways to feel happier right now:

Be Grateful  

Gilbert K. Chesterton said that “gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” What are you grateful for in your life? People who are more grateful in life have less depression symptoms, sleep better, and have less anxiety. They are happier. Although it takes practice, it’s something you can do right now to get closer to that feeling of joy. You can start this practice by writing a list of at least three things you’re thankful for. It’s hard to be unhappy when you start counting your blessings. Dr. Eric Amidi, a quantum physicist, also discusses the power of staying positive.

Focus on Meaning

In an effort to find happiness many of us believe that we have to fill our calendar days with fun adventures. But there is a big difference between happiness and temporary pleasures. According to an article in Psychology Today, it’s better to find meaning in an activity than to seek instant gratifications because “they offer band aids and short-term highs.” Instead of seeking temporary highs, focus on the things, activities, and people in your life that have meaning and you will instantly feel happier. Dr. Eric Amidi adds that you should “never sacrifice your happiness for your desires.”

Get in the Moment

An easy and quick way to feel happier is to focus on the moment. Whether you’re at work, at home, or in traffic, take a deep breath. Focus on your surroundings and your feelings. According to Psychology Today, it’s even beneficial to notice negative emotions because by doing so “they lose their impact.” So pay attention to the world around you as well as the world inside of you. Honoring the moment will make you feel happier because it promotes mindfulness, a concept that Eric Amidi also often writes about.