14 Affirmations for Protection from a Negative Person

Remember the Debbie Downer sketches on Saturday Night Live? Played by Rachel Dratch, the character had the ability to bring a depressing commentary to any occasion. Order a nice, juicy steak? She’d look worried and mention Mad Cow disease. Bring up an upcoming vacation, and she’d be sure to discuss the threat of a hurricane. Cue the wah-wah sad trombone.

We all know someone like this—maybe it’s a coworker, a relative, or even a friend. Negative personalities not only live under a perpetual cloud, they seem most content when they’ve passed their anxiety on to those around them. They can be exhausting to be around, as you practically need a steel shield to keep the negative vibes from ruining your own day. Hmm, a shield. That’s not such a bad idea. Consider these affirmations an emotional shield for when you’re around someone who is allergic to optimism.

1. I’m not taking this personally.
2. I can’t change [insert name], but I can model good behavior.
3. I follow my own path of happiness.
4. I have an open, positive mind.
5. I’m focused on my own success.
6. The less I respond to negative people, the more peaceful my life is.
7. I edit my life and its contents.
8. Today I let go of something negative in my life.
9. Each positive thought erases a negative one.
10. Other people don’t control my emotions. I do.
11. There’s magic and beauty and grace happening all around me.
12. This is my day.
13. I live a life filled with gratitude.
14. I take responsibility for my joyous life.