Pessimistic people aren’t just negative but cynical and arrogant. They don’t just see the struggles in life but thrive in these circumstances. Many will flat-out tell you that they are not pessimists but realists. In their world, nothing is rainbow and butterflies. Many of these folks are depressed, mentally unstable, and feel that the world is the world’s cruelest place. Our lives consist of good and bad, up and down, and a million other opposites. The Yin and Yang of the world describe how opposite and contrary forces are interconnected. Perhaps we need the pessimist to appreciate the optimist.
How does one deal with the constant woes of the pessimist? The pessimist has unrealistic expectations and continues to be pushed and pulled by the gloom and doom of circumstances. In many cases, this type of person cannot see the light at the end of the tunnel. They live in a miserable state of darkness, crudeness, and hostility.
Here are 5 behaviors pessimists use to bring you down, and how to avoid them:
1. Victimization
Most pessimists believe that they are victims of circumstances or situations. They live stuck in the past. As per Robert Firestone, Ph.D.: “People who become mired down in feeling victimized tend to view events in their lives as happening to them and feel ineffective and overwhelmed. They also operate on the basic assumption that the world should be fair, which is a child’s way of thinking.”
Some practically carry around a sign that says, “Poor Me!” Everything that happens to them relates to childhood or past events. They cannot move out of the victim mode.
The best way to deal with the victimization behavior is to call the person out. Make them aware each time they enter into a pessimistic attitude and put a stop to it. People may become angry when they are called on their attitude constructively. It’s essential to shut down critical and destructive thoughts. Help that person understand that they are no longer living in the past. They can create a new way of thinking.
2. Jealousy
Jealousy and an envious attitude derive from insecurities. Most pessimists do not want to follow through because they believe they will be disappointed. Therefore, they’d rather feed on emotionally toxic behaviors of wanting what others have worked hard for. In their own lack of self-esteem, they cannot understand why they are “unlucky” or do not get what they deserve righteously.
Most of the time, jealous people have no idea that they are envious. They do not see the disturbing pattern in mental health. It’s not uncommon for them to have anger or rage for not receiving what another has in their lives. Dealing with this type of behavior is like dealing with a selfish child. You can’t make them understand what they aren’t ready to face about themselves. They already live in a state of negativity, and any productive criticism will be taken as a rejection. It’s best to reinforce their good qualities and help them find something to replace the jealousy.
3. Chronic Complainer
The complainer is ridden by constant negativity that can become a huge challenge for anyone around them. Nothing makes these type of people content or satisfied. They are a dark cloud that never allows the sun to shine through. The chronic complainer lives in a miserable state of dissatisfaction and passes on that toxic behavior on to others. Unfortunately, these folks do not see themselves as pessimists. They believe they are pointing out the things that no one sees, but in the most annoying ways.
You cannot convince the complainer that things are not that morbid. You cannot tell them to stop overreacting either. The best way is to validate their feelings, have empathy and let them know that you appreciate their input. You can redirect their complaints and behavior by adding something positive and walking away.
4. Cynical Attitude
Most cynical people have little faith in humanity. They are bitter, and angry and have no problem expressing their opinions to anyone. Oscar Wilde said best: “A cynic is a man who knows the price of everything and the value of nothing.” Cynicism is often considered intelligent because cynical and sarcastic people are full of wit. However, they are not just skeptics but blinded by their ignorance and fears of seeing beyond their conventional ideas. A cynical person has difficulty leaving the comfort of their own ideas to learn something new.
It’s hard to deal with a cynical, close-minded individual. You either set boundaries or take your losses. This type of person isn’t willing to agree to disagree. They are right and you are wrong. It’s best not to pursue an intelligent argument because they can’t see past their misconceptions. They are not willing to learn anything from you.
5. Assume the Worst
The pessimist assumes the worst in everything without ever trying. They believe they will never succeed at anything, so they don’t bother pursuing a dream. A cloud of doom and gloom drives them at all times. And, this type of person will rain on your parade when you share a dream or goal. They will find the worst-case scenario to stop you from pursuing anything you want. It’s not in their genetic composition to understand how anyone can accomplish things and have a beneficial outcome.
Final Thoughts on Avoiding the Pessimists Who Hold You Back in Life
The pessimist with this characteristic is rude and condescending to a fault. They don’t know they are this negative; sometimes, you must set them straight. But, no matter what you try to say to them, they will never see life through rose-colored glasses. The best thing to do is acknowledge their opinions and keep quiet. Arguing is part of their programming. It’s not worth trying to instill a new personality trait when they are unwilling to see the good in a situation.
Community
