We have all experienced difficult relationships. For me, it used to be a work colleague. Anytime she talked to me, something was wrong; she was upset about everything; she was fingerpointing at someone who did not help her, or she was just in a bad mood and wanted to vent. Her negative emotions impacted me because they kicked off my own negative emotions, and then, I tended to mirror her behavior and respond to her using the same negative emotions. It was such an energy drainer for me.

I now use a simple trick to avoid these negative emotions when interacting with such people. I take a few deep breaths and connect with positive emotions, like empathy and creativity. And then I ask myself: What is something positive I can do for that person that will make me feel good and not react negatively? I write her a thank you email; or I offer her positive feedback about something she did; I focus on the 10% of what she says that is right, and not the 90% that I believe is wrong.

Think about someone you know and who is triggering your negative emotions. What will you do to avoid these and focus on positive emotions instead? Tell me in the comments.

For comments or questions, please visit my website or contact me at pascal@p-m-coaching.com