I think it's safe to say that we're all pretty sick of the endless barrage of bad news that has come our way in 2016.
That's why, in 2017, the only resolution that IGAF about is trying to inject some much-needed positivity into my life. And lucky for me, positivity in the face of adversity isn't just possible, it's pretty doable if you know where to start.
And the first step toward this goal is a step away from the people in your life who bring you down.
Yes, I'm talking about toxic people. Whether they're co-workers, friends or even family members, you know the type: They seethe with pessimism and are always on hand to point out the negative in every situation. Interactions with these folks leave you feeling downtrodden, cynical and drained — never lighthearted or upbeat.
So there you have it: the first step on your journey toward a more positive life.
Still not convinced? Here are eight reasons why it's time to cut these poisonous people out of your life.
1. You don't have the time or energy to deal with other people's drama.
Between paying bills, figuring out what to do with your life and forming meaningful adult relationships, you don't exactly have time to spare. Dealing with negative people will suck the life out of you — toxic interactions lead to fear, conflict and patterns of manipulation.
Remove these interactions from your day-to-day, and you'll find time to focus on the things that make you feel good, instead of the opposite.
2. They're bad for your health.
We all know that surrounding yourself with negative people isn't great for your mental health, but it doesn't stop there.
As Health Magazine reports, recent studies have shown that long-term habits of cynicism, hostility and depression — traits that are hard to resist when you're around toxic people — are correlated with a heightened risk of health problems, including heart disease and dementia.
3. Social engagements leave you feeling drained instead of recharged.
You know the feeling you get after a great party with good friends? Upbeat, refreshed and still smiling at some ridiculous joke? That's how time with friends SHOULD make you feel, whether it's a coffee date or a weekend with the girls.
Yet social interactions all too often don't end in smiles and rainbows. Instead, they leave us on edge, anxious and exhausted from dealing with drama. When you hang out with negative people, it's no surprise that social functions are characterized by negativity. So chase that warm feeling and choose to spend time with friends who lift your spirits instead of bringing you down.
4. Negativity is contagious...
It's a fundamental part of human nature: Our actions rub off on those around us, and vice versa. No matter what your outlook on life is, it's next to impossible to remain unaffected by others.
Even when you consider yourself an optimistic person, remember this: You're not immune to other people's BS. Negativity spreads like wildfire, and it's only a matter of time before you start to notice these traits creeping up in your own self.
5. …but so is positivity.
Before you purge your friendship roster and embark on a lone wolf-life, we've got good news for you: Optimism can be just as contagious as those negative emotions.
So cultivate a social group made up of people who inspire you to look at life through rose-colored glasses — you might be surprised by how quickly your outlook begins to change for the better.
6. Toxic people will try to bring you down when you're feeling good...
You've heard it a million times: Misery loves company. Insecure and unhappy people won't root for your success. Instead, they'll respond to your exciting news or positive mindset by pointing out everything that could go wrong. When this happens, keep in mind that their reaction is likely born out of envy and deep dissatisfaction with their own situations.
But just because you empathize with their negativity doesn't mean you have to deal with it. Next time you have some good news, avoid these downers and don't let anyone put a damper on your shine.
7. ...but won't ever lift you up when you're feeling down.
As we've previously established, misery loves company. When you find yourself going through a tough time, toxic people will commiserate with you and amplify your despair instead of pointing out the bright side of your situation.
Whether you're going through a breakup or dealing with a problem at work, you deserve to confide in people whose main priorities are encouraging and uplifting you in the midst of hardship — not reveling in your gloom.
8. You'll make room in your life for positive things.
Think of it as spring cleaning, but for your emotions: When you rid your life of the people who bring you down, you're clearing space for better things to come.
Healthy relationships, career accomplishments, time for introspection and self-care — all these things become so much more attainable once you clear out the negativity that's draining all of your time and emotional energy.
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