Negativity?

How do you get rid of negativity in your life? One of my close friends, who is very negative himself told me people will only treat you as you will allow. So why do I allow it? Is it better to have no friends than friends that are negative?

Obviously I have chosen that it is better to have negative friends rather than no friends. I have recently been limiting my exposure to them or their exposure to me. If I don't want to talk to them I am not answering the phone or the door or whatever the case may be. It sounds simple, but I always felt they needed me if they were calling and I should respond. I am now taking care of me and protecting my feelings and the like. We can only do better if we try..........so my question to you is how do I find more positive friends, people that at least try to look on the brighter side of life and enjoy it while we are here???

Comments: 6

Kim A. Aug 22, 2007, 11:06am EDT

I know how you feel,I wish I knew too.

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Samantha H. Aug 22, 2007, 11:07am EDT

It is definitely a good idea to find like-minded people. I did that through my career--teaching. You have to at least TRY to be positive as a teacher, or you will lose it quickly. Try finding something that you really enjoy (writing, art, movies, etc.), and join a club. You'll meet people there that are probably more positive because they are going out of their way to do something they love, and aren't really stuck in a rut like our old friends sometimes are. But really...you can't erase negativity completely. Everyone has to be negative sometimes.

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Danielle P. Aug 22, 2007, 11:10am EDT

Good advice Samantha, thanks. Maybe I will join a book club.

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Kelly M. Aug 22, 2007, 11:17am EDT

I have had to stay away from negative people (including family) for my own sanity and peace of mind

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Kathleen**Hair is my LIFE!*** K. Aug 22, 2007, 11:54am EDT

My family is usually the most negative. Mentioning something they said, and then casually mentioning that sounded so negative, maybe will get them thinking. Kind of what my husband did with me...he's positive and I came from a negative family...I'd say, well, what's the meatter if ________(negative) happens? He'd counter with what's the matter if it doesn't? That got me thinking. If you can get them to see the other side, maybe you'll help them reralize their negativity....maybe not. If they want to wallow in their negative stew, let them simmer and walk away. It's hard. I let severla of my high school friends go, because I was their shoulder, but when I needed them, they weren't there for me. Best decision I ever made.

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Comments: 6

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