How to Deescalate Negativity
Negativity in the home, school or workplace can have unfavorable consequences on physical and mental health. According to the Mayo Clinic, those who reduce negative thinking and reactions live longer, experience less stress, improve physical and mental health and display healthier ways. There are tips to help those prone to negativity break this habit and promote positive thought and behavior.
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Analyze Root of Negative Thoughts
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When a negative thought arises it is important for an individual to think about why the situation he is in is creating such internal negativity. He should consider whether the negativity he is feeling or displaying is valid, or whether he is feeling negative emotions because of false assumptions or beliefs. For instance, if negative thoughts and behaviors are occurring because he feels ignored by a coworker on a particular day he could think of valid reasons why this might be happening. His coworker might have a sick child at home or may have had a fight with her husband before work and is preoccupied. The coworkers inattentive attitude may have nothing to do with him at all.
Stop Negative Thoughts Before They Escalate
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For some people negativity may be a habit. At some point a person stops thinking about what is causing negative thoughts and feelings and allows them to escalate. She starts thinking bad things about coworkers and family members and starts believing bad situations are either her fault or because someone is out to get her. Every situation takes on a negative tone. Once this person realizes this negativity is a habit she can start taking charge of her thoughts and behaviors. She can stop negative thoughts when they come and think something positive instead. She can stop negative words and behaviors before they start, or even after they start once she realized she is returning to her habit of negativity.
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Choose Positive Reactions
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No one has complete control over everything that happens in life but everyone has control over how they react. When negative events occur it is instinct to have a negative reaction. Unfortunately one negative thought and reaction leads to another until a bad situation is made worse. When negative situations arise a positive reaction can help deescalate the negativity. For instance, a fight with a friend can lead an individual to think about all the other fights he has had with that person, get mad at what caused those fights all over again and feel even more negative toward his friend. Instead he should remember how important his friend is to him, think of the good times they have had together and find a way to end the fight.
Avoid or Minimize Interaction With Negative People
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When an individual is talking to a negative person she may find her own thoughts and words turn negative. If a coworker is gossiping about another person in the office, complaining about how unfair the workload is, or making fun of the boss's clothing, hair, or quirky habits it is easy to join in the conversation with more negative statements. When someone finds herself in close proximity with a negative person she can avoid conversation with this person. If avoidance is impossible she can change the subject when the negative person starts to gossip or complain or make an excuse to walk away.
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References
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