Avoiding Other People's Drama: How to Stay Calm, Cool and Collected
We all get pulled into other's drama at times. Maybe they involved you. Alternatively, the issue could just seem like something is happening that doesn't involve you at all. No matter the reason, it's important to avoid getting lost in someone else's life and your own personal problems.
Do you have people in your life who have one major storm going at all times? Coworkers, friends, relatives, it can be anyone in your circle who is the source of problems. It's extremely easy to get caught up in other people's stress. Is this true for you--do you find it hard to keep distanced from other people's drama? Or do you think the bigger problem is just with your drama-loving circle of friends?
This article is for anyone who has found themselves in a situation of high stress due to other people's problems. I hope these tips will help you stay calm and collected when faced with other people's drama.
One way to keep yourself from getting caught up in someone else's problems is simply not talking about them when they aren't present, at all. It's hard not to gossip, but it can do a lot of good when you decide to keep your conversations about what is going on in your life and only that. Avoid attending any events where the conversation revolves around other people's drama unless they involve someone close to you who needs emotional support.
But some trouble comes at you directly from this person who is the source of drama! What then?! One of the most difficult types of drama to deal with is when you are in a relationship with someone who constantly brings up their problems and causes them. It's so hard not to get invested, and sometimes you really need to insert yourself to help. You can avoid some stress by actively tuning out what they're saying or giving your partner space to work out the problems on their own. Use your judgement.
Perhaps the best way to deal with this type of situation is not at all. Get out while you still can and try your hardest not to ever go back for another dose! When relationships become toxic in one or both people's eyes, it becomes time to move on - even if that means giving up a long term relationship or hitting the pause button for a while.
If all else fails, simply take time out for yourself. In order to stay in a healthy emotional state, it's important to take care of your mental health by making sure you're getting the sleep and self-care that is necessary.
Sometimes, even if we do our best to avoid other people's drama, it can still find its way into our lives through different sources: friends
This is what I have tried to do to stay above the fray:
I always keep a sense of humor. It's easier said than done, but it will help you maintain your sanity and not take other people's dramas so seriously.
Don't let yourself get sucked in by the negativity or drama. Make sure that when you're talking
Learn to empathize but not identify. Most people are just looking for someone to empathize with them, but don't let that person's feelings become your own.
This advice is a very generalized response and may not be helpful in every situation. If you find yourself getting really upset, take some time out for yourself until the emotions have subsided. Don't let "being a good friend" subject yourself to abusive situations. Don't cover up anyone's truly awful or unethical behavior.