1) Don’t get into an argument

One of the most important things I learned is not to debate with a negative person. A negative person likely has very staunch views and isn’t going to change that just because of what you said. Whatever you say, he/she can find 10 different reasons to back up his/her viewpoint. The discussion will just swirl into more negativity, and you pull yourself down in the process. You can give constructive comments, and if the person rebutts with no signs of backing down, don’t engage further.
2) Empathize with them

Have you ever been annoyed by something before, then have someone tell you to “relax”? How did you feel? Did you relax as the person suggested or did you feel even more worked up?
From my experience, people who are negative (or upset for that matter) benefit more from an empathetic ear than suggestions/solutions on what he/she should do. By helping them to address their emotions, the solutions will automatically come to them (it’s always been inside them anyway).
3) Lend a helping hand

Some people complain as a way of crying for help. They may not be conscious of it though, so their comments come across as complaints rather than requests. Take the onus to lend a helping hand. Just a simple “Are you okay?” or “Is there anything I can do to help you?” can do wonders.
4) Stick to light topics

Some negative people are triggered by certain topics. Take for example: One of my friends sinks into a self-victimizing mode whenever we talk about his work. No matter what I say (or don’t say), he’ll keep complaining once we talk about work.
Our 1st instinct with negative people should be to help bring them to a more positive place (i.e. steps #2 and #3). But if it’s apparent the person is stuck in his/her negativity, the unhappiness may be too deeply rooted to address in a one-off conversation, or for you to help him/her unravel it. Bring in a new topic to lighten the mood. Simple things like new movies, daily occurrences, common friends, make for light conversation. Keep it to areas the person feels positive towards.
5) Ignore the negative comments

One way to help the negative person “get it” is to ignore the negative comments. If he/she goes into a negative swirl, ignore or give a simple “I see” or “Ok” reply. On the other hand, when he/she is being positive, reply in affirmation and enthusiasm. Do this often and soon he/she will know positivity pays off. He/she will adjust to be more positive accordingly.
6) Praise the person for the positive things

Negative people aren’t just negative to others. They’re also negative to themselves. If you already feel negative around them, imagine how they must feel all the time. What are the things the person is good at? What do you like about the person? Recognize the positive things and praise him/her for it. He/she will be surprised at first and might reject the compliment, but on the inside he/she will feel positive about it. That’s the first seed of positivity you’re planting in him/her and it’ll bloom in the long-term.
7) Hang out in 3′s or more people

Having someone else in the conversation works wonders in easing the load. In a 1-1 communication, all the negativity will be directed towards you. With someone else in the conversation, you don’t have to bear the full brunt of the negativity. This way you can focus more on doing steps #1 (Empathizing) and #2 (Helping the person).
8) Be responsible for your reaction

Whether the person is negative or not, ultimately you’re the one who is perceiving the person is negative. When you recognize that, actually the negativity is the product of your lens. Take responsibility for your perceptions. For every trait, you can interpret it in a positive and a negative manner. Learn to see the goodness of the person than the negative. It may be tough initially, but once you cultivate the skill, it becomes second nature.
9) Reduce contact with them / Avoid them

If all else fails, reduce contact with them or avoid them altogether. If it’s a good friend, let him/her know of the severity of the issue and work it out where possible. It’s not healthy to spend too much time with people who drain you. Your time is precious, so spend it with people who have positive effects on you.

 

Im trying very very hard to stay positive. I used to be down a lot, everyday.
But lately ive been quite happy! a lot is a big thank you to your words and posts space.
they really have helped me quite a bit and i see things more positive! thanks for all those posts like this! they truly work on people!

 

Thanks `Devin, your words mean a lot to me & that my efforts, my time is appreciated.

I must really give credit to my grandfather & his senior citizen friends that taught the beachbums & I. They instilled us with a positive outlook on life & to always look at what we have, instead of what we do not. They taught us to dream, to make a plan for that `dream & then to put it into action...I love & appreciate the time & wisdom they shared of their wisdom in life...


They taught us to always help/share when we could, and to always extract the most from each day we were given.
I love them, and life so much 4-Sure...


I hope that more will share because they care & to keep making it a better world for `all. Thank You & Member's for all your contributions to our Monte Carlo Family & making it better for all who visit & invest their time/life
Peace/Love/Respect/Happiness to `all
from `Space
Let There Be Peace on Earth - YouTube

OK, it's time to `party & Celebrate `Life....
Class over 4 2day LOL ~>EnJoy

 

I usually always try to stay positive. In general, I am a pretty positive person. Even in tough times, I just keep my head up and plow through the time.

 

Hi `Michael,
Your positive attitude is always reflected in your posted words, as they are in the way your live your life...

Thanks for your post & comments...Now, get out there a convert those negative think'in people ~>

 

Thanks Space!

Before I go convert negative people into positive people, I need to get over the fact that it's Monday and i'm at work. :P LOL. JK. I'm thankful to have a good job, just PO'd it's already Monday....So much for positive! hahahaha. LOL.

 

LoL `Michael, yes life is full of negatives that do their best to drag us in2 their pity pot...We must fight and not let them win 4-Sure...It's a constant battle everyday 4-Sure....
Life is a test, and I don't want to lose, I want to win at life 4-Sure....It does take energy & effort, but the results are sure worth it 4-real Thanks again for your posts/comments..
Don't worry, Monday will pass & come again, but just be happy to have been given another day of life 4-Sure
Peace/out from `Space

 

great poll Kid Space I am positive you will see some great comments XD

 

i am certainly mr. negative, grumpy whatever you want to call me.