How to stay positive – Even around negative people

Remaining positive, even when those around you are readying themselves for failure, can be incredibly difficult. Perhaps you’ve come across a particularly negative client, a management type that is far more concerned about budgets and figures than getting the job done right, or even somebody outside of work whose attitude does little for you; whatever the source of the negativity that’s threatening your good mood, these tips should help you to brush it all away to stay positive.

1. Control the flow of negative energy, and news, around you

It’s very easy to be brought down by bad news, miserable colleagues, or an inevitable project management meeting that you know won’t go well. Unless something needs dealing with as a matter of urgency leave it to one side and retain your good mood for the time being; banish that negativity, and perhaps its power over you will dwindle. Today is about you, so make a conscious effort to hold onto your positive attitude.

2. Focus on the positives

Whether a person means to be negative or not it can be incredibly helpful to tackle their attitude with one of positivity. If they’re attempting to bring you down your sunny outlook will merely annoy them, while a genuinely concerned party may well find their day improved. Now is a time for reassessing your goals, ticking things off your to-do list, and to think, really think, about the things that make you happy. You have so much to be grateful for, never forget that.

3. Ignore conflict

It can be very easy to react to negativity with conflict, and it’s so very frustrating when a co-worker, friend, or member of management seems intent to ruin your good mood. Don’t take such attacks personally, though, and try and put yourself in their shoes. Are they stressed? Frustrated with their achievements? By taking the time to listen to, and empathise with, an upset colleague or loved one, you could minimise their negative outlook, rather than loosing touch with your positivity. Well, it’s worth a try, after all.

4. Draw strength from negativity

It’s time to see each instance of negativity as an opportunity for growth; rather than letting a negative coworker bring you down turn that moment of resentment, or frustration, into something else. Negativity can be incredibly unhealthy, and so it’s really worth channeling it into productivity whenever you can.

5. Become the positive reinforcement your workplace needs

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself why negative people surround you? Is there a particular project that is upsetting everyone, a new member of staff that has thrown the proverbial cat amongst the pigeons, or a general feeling of uneasiness in the office? If so, now may be your chance to infect everybody with your positivity; remind team mates of the things that are working, the goals that your company is fulfilling, and the targets you’re all hitting, and see if you can turn those frowns upside down – no, really, it could just work.

And, when all else fails…

6. Find comfort in being alone

Sometimes we have to resign ourselves to the fact that people are out to destroy our positive energy, whether purposefully or not. If you’re having a good day there is no shame in hiding yourself away from the world, particularly if you think you’ll achieve more that way. There is always the chance that tomorrow will be the same, but take comfort from the fact that, for now, you can continue to think your happy thoughts.

So, there you have it. When all the world is trying to give you lemons, ensure you make a great big urn of lemonade, sit back, and enjoy.