It is normal for humans to seek out recognition and support from our loved ones. But what happens when the people you love are unsupportive?
This is a common problem for people who choose an unconventional path in life (such as starting your own business). Thankfully it is possible to resolve this issue; you just need to have the right mindset.
Here are four tips to help you deal with unsupportive people.
1. Business Owner 101 – How To Deal With Unsupportive People: Don’t Argue With Them
If you are making a big change (for instance, maybe you are stepping away from a long-term career or turning down a well-paying job), it is likely that there will be some people in your life questioning your decision. If this happens, try not to argue with them. You may feel frustrated, but arguing will just make the other person defensive, so they may find it even harder to see your point of view.
Instead calmly explain why this is the best decision for you. If they truly care about you, this will placate their worries – and if they are still worried after you have addressed their concerns, it could mean that they don’t actually have your best interests at heart.
2. Be Confident In Your Decision
This is your journey and your life, so you must be confident in your decision. Take the time to weigh up the pros and the cons, and try to eliminate any potential problems that could occur in advance. This will make you more certain that you are making the right choice, so you are less likely to be bothered by other people’s opinions.
3. Accept That You Can’t Change The Way People Think
You may think that the unsupportive people will change their mind over time, but this isn’t always the case. You could work hard and open an incredibly successful business, but some people will always have negative things to say; that is just the kind of person they are. So make sure that you are doing this for yourself, rather than anyone else!
4. Replace Negative People With Positive People
There will always be negative people who spend their lives judging others – and the best way to deal with these people is by removing them from your life. This will help to protect your own mindset; after all, research has found that if you spend a lot of time with negative people you could become more negative yourself.
So distance yourself from the negative people in your life, and instead focus on the positive people who support you. Tell them about your ideas and dreams, and try to support them as they do you. This will cultivate a happy, healthy support group for everyone involved!
