Don't let people's BS get you down

We come across difficult people everywhere -- at work, at family gatherings, and even while driving.

No matter how nice you are and how diplomatic you aim to be, there will always be someone bent on raining on your parade, especially if they sense you're generally in a happy mood.

Don't pay such individuals any mind.

Think of it this way: Why allow someone who doesn't pay your bills, isn't there for you in tough times, and doesn't put you on their priority list exert so much control over your emotions?

There are those people over which it makes complete sense to worry -- our parents, our kids, and the like.

But letting that surly driver who cut you off on the way home or the obnoxious cashier at the grocery store ruin your day does nothing but empower them.

Don't harp on the incident -- just let it go.

Distract your mind by listening to music, watching a movie, throwing yourself into your work, taking a nap, playing with your child, or doing anything else that will help redirect your thoughts.

No one can hurt or upset you without your permission.

Rather than reacting in a purely emotional manner, try to adopt a more rational posture. Tell yourself that you'll likely never see that driver or cashier again, and this incident is unlikely to be remembered a year from now, so there's no use getting all worked up over it.

No matter how hard you try, these facts always hold true:

1. You'll never be able to please every single person.

2. Not everyone will like you.

3. Misery loves company.

Whether you're making a decision or responding to a given situation, it's important you balance heart and mind.

The emotions we experience -- whether sadness, anger, or fear -- can cloud our judgment and drive us to make suboptimal choices.

And unless we're careful, others' behavior can seriously diminish our happiness.

That's why it's crucial to aim toward keeping it all in perspective. Don't sweat the small stuff, and don't assign more importance to things than they truly deserve.

Next time someone tries to infuse their drama and negativity into your life, walk away. Your mind has limited space as it is. Don't allot any of it for people who don't enhance your life.

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