Artist Credit: Android Jones

Empathy is something all humans have. We’re soft wired for it. Empathy is the social force at work when you see someone hurt and you feel their hurt, nearly physically. If you’ve ever been around a toxic person, though, you know how empathy can make their negativity rub off on you. So how do we make sure negative people keep their energy to themselves?

1. Let go of expectations.

You’re not going to be able to please everyone, so don’t go seeking out toxic people to make happy. Their negativity stems from unhappiness, and happiness can only come from within them. If you try to make them happy, all that’ll happen is your energy will be brought down to their level.

2. Don’t invite negativity into your life.

Your immediate environment should be your temple, and you’re not going to want to let negative people into that temple. Sure, let them stop by, but never invite it in to stay. They won’t respect you or your home.

3. Don’t mind them.

Just ignore the negativity. These energy vampires don’t get anything out of you if you don’t pay them any mind. Eventually they and their toxic energy will move on.

4. Be responsible for only yourself.

Maybe the universe sends people in to test us and see what we’re made of. When you’re with people who lie and test you, your reaction may determine whether or not you pass the test. You’re only responsible for yourself.