7 types of people you’re better off distancing yourself from

I’ve always believed that the people we surround ourselves with greatly impact our lives. They can either lift us up or drag us down.

There are certain types of people, you know, those who drain our energy or bring negativity into our lives. And it’s often healthier to keep a distance from them.

I’ve identified seven types of people you’re better off distancing yourself from.

Let’s dive into who these people are and why it’s better for your well-being to keep them at arm’s length.

1) The constant complainers

We all know one or two of these types. They’re the ones who always seem to have something negative to say, about everything and everyone.

It’s not just that they’re a downer to be around. Their negativity can be infectious, seeping into your own thoughts and mood if you’re not careful.

These constant complainers focus on problems rather than solutions. They’re quick to point out what’s wrong, but rarely contribute towards making things better.

Don’t get me wrong, everyone has a bad day or an occasional rant. But when someone’s default setting is to complain, it might be best for your own sanity and positivity to distance yourself a bit.

2) The one-sided friendship

We’ve all been there, right? That friend who only ever seems to call when they need something. I remember a particular friend I had in college. We’d have a great time hanging out, but I noticed that they only ever seemed to reach out when they needed help with an assignment or a ride somewhere.

At first, I brushed it off. But over time, it became clear that the friendship was very one-sided. It was always about what I could do for them, not about mutual support or spending time together because we enjoyed each other’s company.

In the end, I realized that this kind of friendship was draining more than it was fulfilling. It’s not easy, but sometimes you have to make the tough decision to distance yourself from such people for your own well-being.

3) The perpetual pessimist

It’s been scientifically proven that our brains have a negativity bias. That is, we’re wired to pay more attention to negative experiences than positive ones.

Now, imagine being around someone who always sees the glass as half empty. Their constant pessimism can weigh heavily on your own thoughts and emotions, possibly even triggering this negativity bias in your own brain.

While it’s important to stay realistic and not ignore life’s challenges, being around someone who only sees the worst in every situation can be extremely draining. It’s often healthier for your own peace of mind to keep a safe distance from perpetual pessimists.

4) The gossipmongers

Gossip can be fun, even thrilling at times. But when someone constantly indulges in it, it can become toxic very quickly.

Gossipmongers thrive on spreading rumors and revealing secrets, often without considering the impact on others. They create a culture of mistrust and suspicion.

Moreover, if they’re gossiping to you about others, it’s likely they’re gossiping about you to others as well.

Maintaining a healthy distance from such people can save you from unnecessary drama and potential harm to your reputation.

5) The emotional manipulators

Some people have a knack for making you feel guilty or responsible for their emotions, even when you’ve done nothing wrong. I had a relationship like this once. It seemed that no matter what I did, it was never enough. I was always feeling guilty, always trying to make up for some perceived slight.

Emotional manipulators have a way of twisting situations and making you question your own perception of reality. They often play the victim and use your empathy against you.

This kind of emotional manipulation can be incredibly damaging to one’s self-esteem and mental health. It’s important to recognize these patterns and distance yourself from such individuals.

6) The constant critic

Constructive criticism is a good thing. It helps us grow and improve. But then there are those who seem to have made it their mission to find and point out every flaw, mistake, or shortcoming.

These constant critics rarely have anything positive or encouraging to say. They can make you feel inadequate and sap your confidence.

Nobody’s perfect. Everyone makes mistakes. Don’t let the constant critics dampen your spirit or prevent you from trying new things. It’s often healthier to distance yourself from such negative influences.

7) The self-centered individuals

The world doesn’t revolve around one person, but try telling that to the self-centered individuals. They’re always the main character in every scenario, and their needs and wants always come first.

Being around such people can be draining. You might find yourself constantly catering to their needs, while your own are overlooked or ignored.

Relationships should be about mutual respect and consideration. If you find yourself constantly playing second fiddle to someone else’s ego, it’s time to reconsider your relationship with that person.

The takeaway: Self-preservation is key

Your well-being and mental peace are paramount. It’s not selfish to prioritize your own emotional health. In fact, it’s a form of self-preservation.

It’s important to remember that everyone has the capacity to change and grow. But until they do, you have every right to protect your own energy and peace of mind.

So, take a moment to evaluate the relationships in your life. Are they lifting you up or weighing you down? The answer might just be the key to a healthier, happier, more positive life.