by Christian Bossert

Sickness has run rampant this winter. Something I want to address is habitual sickness. This is a pattern of being sick “all the time.” It is of my personal belief that in most cases those who experience recurring health related issues can trace the origin of the sickness to negative thought impulses.

This is not to say you are a cynical narcissist because you got sick. We all have our moments of despair, anxiety and discouragement. Positive people do not let these thoughts take over their life. The positive person lives the four to one ratio (four positive thoughts to every negative.)

How does this have anything to do with getting sick frequently? An unfortunate reality is we can’t avoid the ‘negative Nancys’ of the world. Those that live in a world of doom and gloom don’t know that they are a toxic cocktail. If knowledge is power then we are best to be aware of the behaviors of negative people.

Below are five warning signs of a negative person:

1. They always worry

On beach days they see a cloud and think the best of the day is gone. They rarely envision the best case scenario or a wonderful outcome.

2. They try to tell you what you should do with your life

Whether it’s your relationship, job, kids, etc. they’re always telling you what you’re doing wrong and what you should be doing. They may not realize this, but this is a sure sign that they have not figured out their own issues.

3. They put a negative spin on good news

You just got that promotion you’ve worked so hard for. For the pessimist this means higher expectations, more work, and more responsibility.

4. They complain a lot

The world is against them. They are usually victims of bad weather, bad boss, bad traffic, bad luck and their upbringing. They typically have thin skin and an oversensitivity to criticism. You may say to them, “You look great today!” They may respond in a completely serious tone, “I look bad on other days?” Taking a compliment is a struggle.

5. They love the word ‘but’

It’s a beautiful park, BUT ‘there are too many people here.’ It’s a great restaurant, BUT ‘why didn’t you book a table over there.’ They finish their words with a ‘but’ word, turning a positive into a negative.

These are examples of subtle under the radar thought impulses that can cause damage. These thoughts are dangerous because they don’t destroy us that day, that week, or even that year. When these negative thoughts are said out loud consistently over time eventually they will physically manifest themselves in us.

Pump as much positivity into each day. Set goals. Exercise and eat healthy. Plan something you can look forward to. And for every negative impluse that you encounter, churn out four positive thoughts. Stay strong and stay healthy out there!