Let’s face it, it can be pretty challenging to deal with another person’s negative emotions. When we feel like we’re being sucked down into their pit, our first reaction is often to counter with something positive. But, as it turns out, that’s not always the best thing… either for their emotional wellbeing, or your relationship with them.
This week, we talk through strategies to deal with negativity in both ourselves and the people we love… and find hard to love.
This Week’s Listener Question:
I have a really sulky teenager. She comes home every day in a mad mood and spews negativity. What can I do to change her attitude?
Small Group Questions:
To build connection with a friend or in your small group, ask each other these questions.
1. Think about a person in your life who often spews negativity. What emotions come up in you when you’re around them?
2. What makes it hard to “mine” for the emotions, or what Christine calls parts, underneath negativity? Do you tend to get caught up in the content or try to change other people’s attitudes?
3. When have you experience toxic positivity? How does it make you feel? How does it impact our relationships?
4. How can you validate other people’s emotions to build them up and create deeper connections? Think of one person you can uplift, encourage, and validate this week. Now go and bless them!
Resources:
This Is Why Toxic Positivity Can Be So Harmful
Toxic Positivity
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Have a questions for us? Send it to questions@soulenchilada.com
Learn more about Laura and The 3 O’Clock Wake Up Call: https://www.3oclockwakeup.com/
Learn more about Christine Ruth: http://www.christineruth.com/
Learn more about Laura’s Faith Studies: https://www.3oclockwakeup.com/bible-studies
