Don’t Just React

When you're with negative people, anger comes easily. They typically say harsh, doubtful, and eye-roll-inducing things to get attention or as a coping method. However, when you immediately respond to them, you merely get negative.

So, exhale deeply. Count to ten. If necessary, block out the unfavorable speaker's words as you speak. Next, determine what emotion is behind your anger. Putting a name to a sensation often helps you understand it and helps you overcome it. Smiling and excusing yourself to return to work; putting a positive spin on what they say; making a gentle joke about it or even flat-out ignoring them are some ways you can use to respond in a way that is more proactive.