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How to escape from negative people

Angry woman

How many people do you encounter on a daily basis who seemingly ooze negativity? They find a problem for every solution. They make mountains out of molehills. They play the role of devil's advocate or contrarian any chance they get. 

Negative and dramatic people are a drain on our mental and emotional resources. They thrive on theatrics and do nothing but try to drag us down with them. Misery surely loves company, and they'll stop at nothing until you're down in the dumps with them. 

They say you can't change the people around you. But if you think about it, you can in fact change (as in replace or eliminate) the people who surround you. 

It's time to free yourself from the grips of toxic, self-esteem-shattering, soul-destroying individuals!

A primary reason why so many of us have a hard time distancing ourselves from negative folks is because we've known them for a long time and have invested so much time and energy into the relationship that we'll do virtually anything to salvage it. But if the person in question turns toxic, it's best to distance yourself from it -- at least until he or she shows signs of their former self. If that doesn't come to pass, it's best to move on.

In other cases, we try to perpetuate the relationship because we feel we're getting something out of it that we don't wish to lose. Maybe it's dealing with a terrible boss in a high-paying job or a highly attractive partner in a topsy-turvy relationship. But is money or a pretty girlfriend really worth your mental health? Unless they at least make an attempt to change, you're better off finding a new job or significant other. 

In the end, you can end up with a job, partner, or friend that doesn't pose a risk to your well-being. To be fair, no relationship or job is perfect. You'll have good days and bad ones no matter the circumstances. But if anything negatively affects your qualify of life for a prolonged period, change is in order!

Again, I recommend having a conversation with the negative person and being upfront about how you feel before making any moves. How they respond (or don't) will tell a lot. 

As the saying goes, life isn't so much what happens to you as it is what you do with what happens to you. Chances are, once you bolt for a new job or partner, you'll feel a considerable lift off your shoulders and a resurgence of joy and tranquility in your life. 

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