Due to the anonymity of the internet and the lack of face-to-face interaction, being online can give some people the balls to act like a fool. 

You can only do so much before you run into a troll or some jerk online. 

Of course, this leads to conflict, shit talking (doing it, having it directed at you, or just having to see it), and overall negativity. 

This week particularly has seen plenty of harshness and negative Nellies on Facebook. 

If you’re like me (a peaceful person who hates drama), then here are a few tips to help you avoid negative situations that do creep up from time to time. 

No. 1 - Find the right community to hang out with

If you love to visit a specific group or forum but find that you always leave feeling drained then it may be time find a new crew to roll with. 

The bottom line here is that if you don’t feel good, you should move on. No hard feelings. Listen to your gut and don’t feel pressured to stay just because it’s where the “in crowd” is. 

If you find that your community puts up people being insulting or mean - then it’s time for you to assess if it’s the right place for you to be building your business. 

No. 2 - Read between the lines

Sometimes, what people write can be misconstrued as “harsh” or “negative” when it may not the case. Since we can’t see the other person’s facial expressions or hear their tone of voice, it may not be worth your time to get your panties in a bunch. 

If someone posts something that seems off to you, you can always ask them to CLARIFY what they MEAN. Chances are no ill will was intended. 

No. 3 – Ignore the crazy

Have you ever had two online buddies suddenly “hate” each other? I have. Twice. Talk about awkward. There’s always someone who drags in unnecessary (or unsubstantiated) drama. 

Take the thunder away from these negative types by simply ignoring them. Don’t engage. 
Choose to enjoy your online group and space. Leave the bad apples behind. With people who are attention hogs, energy vampires, or drama queens, do you best to avoid them. With any luck, they’ll get tired of trying to loop you in and go find a different playground to make trouble in. 

Negativity can be found everywhere and anywhere. The important thing is not to allow it to affect what you’re TRYING TO DO.

Do you best to stay positive about your business.

And remember, what you put out there comes back to you. So, if you’re keeping the positive vibes up, you’ll end up attracting other like-minded folks too!