Basically we all know what to do when it comes to our environment, and if the world were perfect we wouldn’t have to give it a second thought. The reality is that the world we live in isn’t perfect and we are only human, prey to our emotions; even though at times we know what we may be doing isn’t the best thing for us, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. And since there is so much that can pull us down and because we are constantly bombarded by negativity, all we are trying to suggest is for you to lessen your exposure to a negative environment.

Have you noticed at work that the smallest amount of negativity can erode or even paralyze someone’s home or business? Personality conflicts, political agendas, or feelings of revenge become the main focus. The negativity takes your mind off your objective, your everyday activities, your studies, or your work, and you become caught up in something that doesn’t really matter. On the personal side, I’m sure we all know someone who hates the idea of family reunions or being with friends of friends who are so strange that they must be from another planet. At work, have you ever seen or heard those at the “water cooler club”? A small band of whiners, conspirators, gossipers, whose work output is marginal at best, who know who’s been doing what to whom and for how long.

What do you do? Since we will never be able to change everything in our world to our liking, we have to learn to adjust and make the most of what we have. For example, when it comes to marriage - the key to a good marriage, whether it is one of business or a personal union, is compromise. When it comes to surviving a negative environment you can at least begin by limiting your exposure. Think of it as radiation: a sudden burst of exposure can instantly vaporize you, but what a lot of people forget is that small continual doses of radiation can be just as deadly. So, limit your exposure to a negative environment. If possible stay away from those water cooler gossipers, the folks craving your appeasement, or anyone or group that you don’t have to put up with. And whenever you come into contact with those people or situations that drive you up the wall, be the better person and make the best of things. Grit your teeth, and smile, smile, smile.

So many folks complain about things without dealing with their circumstances, and sooner or later these same folks find themselves part of the same setting they complained about in the first place. Is there anything you can do to change things at home or work that can alter the environment? You will probably find some things that weren’t quite as bad as you thought they were.

Another question: Are you willing to compromise in your current situation that troubles you, or can you put up with how things are? If you are willing to change something in order to make things better, then do it, but do so on a continual basis - whether it’s your attitude, staying away from others who pull you down - whatever the case, do something. If you can put up with the situation, then make the most of it!