How do you cope with negative people?

Here are some practical tips that work.

If the person is constantly negative it is a sure sign they have a

negative mental program running . This usually results from them

having an unmet need.

1st. Listen to them but DO NOT react to their negativity. Your reactions

       are your responsibility.  It helps to stand mentally aside and observe

       without judgement.

2nd. Ask "To make sure I have fully understood you, may I let you know what

        I think you said?"  Repeat back to them the key things they told you.

3rd. Ask "To make sure I appreciate how you feel, may I let you know what

I experienced?"  Repeat back to them the feelings they expressed.

4th.   Ask "Tell me, what need do you have that you feel is unmet?"

Helping them discover and express their unmet need is the KEY

for them to switch from compulsive negativity. They will experience

being fully understood and validated for what they are thinking and

feeling. When they know their need is understood then they are

ready to listen to other points of view without reacting negatively.

To high-speed you becoming skilled in this, role play with a friend. It's like

driving a car. The more often you drive the easier it gets.

Christopher Evatt

www.chrisevatt.com