Negativity is a poisonous habit and mindset that many people find themselves possessing. If you are not careful, negativity can become a way of life. Recently my friends and I have decided to make a conscious effort to become aware of when we are being negative. I, like many others, have found myself in too many situations where I have been talking in a negative manor, whether it is about something or someone; it is counterproductive and needs to end.
Now you might be asking what I mean by negativity, and the way I see it there is dozens of ways that people can be negative. However, there are some types of negativity that I have seen recently that really stand out. This habit can come in all shapes and sizes but here are just some of the types that I feel make a large impact on who we are as not just and individual but as a society.
1. Talking negatively.
We have all done it at some point or another, whether we realize it or not. Talking negatively cannot only be harmful to you, but to others as well. We all like to vent, and sometimes we all need to vent but there is a very thin line between venting and talking bad about someone or something.
Acknowledge this line, know this line, and do not cross this line. If you need to vent, do it with a close friend or relative — but make sure it is not purely to trash another person’s character. Talking negatively is one of the biggest habits I believe our generation faces. With outlets such as social media, blogs and cellular devices what you say, even in confidence, is never truly private.
Another factor of talking negative is saying things about someone that you wouldn’t want to be said about you. We all have faults. Do you really want someone pointing out yours? Remember there is always someone listening, even someone you don’t want to hear.
2. Thinking negative thoughts.
Again, we all do it. Negative thoughts can often lead to negative words. They can be harmful to others, but more importantly to ourselves. I think of negative thoughts, the first thing that comes to mind is when we are down on ourselves. It is no secret we are all negative about ourselves in someway or another. We are in fact, our own biggest critics. Thinking negative thoughts can bring ourselves down; it can make us feel as if we are not worth anything. Who wants that really? Remind yourself that you are good enough. And keep negative thoughts of others out of your mind. It will only create a vicious cycle.
3. Surrounding yourself with negative people.
Negativity is contagious. When you surround yourself with people who are negative, naturally you will begin to think and talk that way too. Being around people who are always bringing others and themselves down is toxic. These people will never truly be happy and it is important to remove them from your life. If you are doing everything you can to be positive, and they continue to be negative then you have to know when it is time to cut them out of your life. This might seem harsh but it important for your overall well being. But remember your positivity can always rub off on others.
If you catch yourself being negative remember: if there is something that you can do about a situation, do it. Don’t just talk about it. If you cannot fix something than ask yourself what is the point in worrying about it and just move on.
