The Negativity Trap

The Negativity Trap

Posted on 05. Mar, 2010 by AshleyWarren in Leadership

I spent time with a friend from out of town recently, a friend who I feel very comfortable with. You know, one of the ones you can let your guard down around and just be yourself? We had a blast together, and I’m so glad that we had time to visit. But as she was sharing stories about her day-to-day, I started to hear some patterns of negativity and judgment woven through them. Before I could stop myself, I jumped in with complaints of my own. I am struck by how easily I can fall into that trap, how easily influenced I am. It just takes one mention of an aggravating situation at work or a frustrating conversation with the hubby, and I can jump right in with stories of my own…and not ones that are spreading sunshine (if you know what I mean!)

This is NOT cool with me! I want to be the kind of person who responds to negativity by either keeping my mouth shut or by redirecting the conversation. And I certainly don’t want to be the one who starts the complaint-downward-spiral! That’s not the type of influence I want to have. So, I’m working on it. What if the words that we use built up instead of tearing down? Imagine the power of THAT influence!

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6 Responses to “The Negativity Trap”

  1. Lindsey_Nobles

    05. Mar, 2010

    Yeah, this is a hard thing. Finding the balance between being real and being a downer. We are so easily influenced by those we associate with. I am convinced, now more than ever, that you have to at least have a section of friends who will left you up.

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  2. Melissa Brotherton

    05. Mar, 2010

    I recognize the tendency in myself to be negative and critical of others and I try so hard to not put my thoughts into words…someday I hope to be able to work on the thoughts. But, when I find out someone else is feeling the same way I am I feel justified in my criticalness…that’s when it all spills out. Thanks for this post and the reminder that our negativity is very contagious…maybe I need a face mask. :)

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  3. Eve Annunziato

    05. Mar, 2010

    Great word, Ash. I see you as such a positive-spirit so I don't think you'll have a hard time breaking this tendency.

    Thanks for the reminder to build up rather than tear down in our personal and professional trek.

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  4. trishadavis23

    07. Mar, 2010

    This is so good and so true! With all the drama that has surrounded our family this year I have tried hard to be aware of my complaint meter. Thanks for this great reminder to keep looking at it!

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  5. Hilda

    08. Mar, 2010

    Oh I love this and I feel the same way. With my work world being so negative I am trying not to let that overflow into my weekend :) life. Thanks for sharing!

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  6. Steve

    25. Apr, 2010

    Great word, Ash. I see you as such a positive-spirit so I don’t think you’ll have a hard time breaking this tendency.

    Thanks for the reminder to build up rather than tear down in our personal and professional trek.

    Reply to this comment

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