Are you a Victim of Negativity?

I don’t know about you, but I am up to my eyeballs in negativity right now. It’s really hard not to be influenced (or swamped, even) by the tide of anger, fear, frustration and hopelessness that is swirling around us on a daily basis.

I was chatting with one of my favourite people, Alex Granger, earlier in the week and I asked him to send some thoughts and insights through to me, so that I could share them with you.

I am pleased as punch to share them with you here.

“Warning!!” he writes.

“I have seen negativity stifle the growth of my clients again and again, so I’ve jotted down some thoughts and insights to try and help ensure that none of you end up being an unwitting victim of negativity.

Here are 3 signs that you could be a victim of negativity. 

First, you are constantly complaining about most things.

If you find yourself in this situation, it is time to look at yourself and reflect on why you do this. Whatever it is that you complain about, ask yourself whether you’re a spectator, contributor, or solution-provider to what you are complaining about. For example, perhaps you are complaining about corruption. Ask yourself if you are not holding others accountable within your circle of influence, or whether you are living up to ethical behaviour, and if you have become a voice of excellence. The last two are workable solutions. Many believe that by complaining they are doing enough. Yes, enough damage I say. Make possible suggestions with actions that can alleviate the problem you are complaining about, instead of being a voice in the sea of sameness.

Second, you are not interested in listening to others.

Do you find yourself falling victim to confirmation bias? This is when you disagree with everyone whose opinion or views are contrary to your own? It may appear to you that only your view is valid. This is negativity as you do not allow yourself to be open to learning from others, and also, it is disrespectful. Sometimes you need to take a step back and appreciate that not everyone will agree with you. And neither will you agree with others. Your views and opinions, while valid, may not be the only alternative in any discussion or narrative. However, if you listen ardently, you might gain new insights that may enhance your own mindset and shift your behaviour. Take time to be attentive as you listen and question the validity of your own stance.

Third, you do not want to change.

If someone tries to give you some reasonable advice, you are not interested and keep repeating the same stories. You don’t want to take any advice. You want people to listen to all you have to say and absorb your negativity so that they become like. This is a very debilitating and addictive behaviour because when you wake up in the morning, you subconsciously plan how you will be negative. In fact, your brain goes as far as preparing responses for those who purpose to help you change. The solution is simple. Reflect on your growth in the past year and be honest about whether this behaviour (of not wanting to change) is serving you or not. The quicker you realise that you need to adapt to an ever changing environment, the quicker you invite happiness, focus, and success into your life.

So: are you a victim of negativity? 

If you are, don’t worry. It is still not too late! You can still turn things around now if you follow some of my advice.

Of course, it is easier said than done, but it CAN be done.

I want to see you succeed, so I hope that these insights have been useful in helping you identify whether you are a victim of negativity or not.

If you aren’t a victim, congratulations and good for you! Continue being the beacon of light you are, to those around you. We need you!”

With any changes to economic activity, no-one is spared: the economy, school, business, freedom, health and life in general. To overcome any challenges one needs to develop a high level of resilience to navigate change, uncertainty and stress.

To this end, Alex has designed a brand new 2 Hour Resilience Workshop titled “The Second Arrow”.

It is a practical, relevant and authentic workshop that promises to help people navigate disruption and change.

Click here to see more info about this new talk and here to see Alex’s full profile.

Well, that’s it from me for this short week.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on Alex’s views above – hit me with a reply … I read every single one that comes in.

I sincerely hope that you have a fabulous long weekend, surrounded by those you love (in spirit, at least, if not in person).