Have you found yourself drained physically, mentally, and emotionally this year? Are you lacking ambition and inspiration? If you answered yes to any of these, it could be because of the people around you.

“You are who you surround yourself with.”

Your friends can be causing your slump and could be your emotional anchors. Here’s how to identify them and cut them out:

1) The Child – A big time dreamer with no action. These friends have never been on their own and they are terrible with responsibility. Mainly because they’ve never had any. They’re pushing thirty years old, and their parents still wash their clothes for them.

Because of this, they have no ambition and will probably never be able to fully function on their own. Such a pity, because these friends tend to have the most potential. Alas, you don’t have time to parent someone through life. Cut them loose. You’ll thank me in 10 years.

Try instead:

The Go-Getter – This dreamer is all about action. Which is why they tend to be uber successful.

They set goals and they meet them. In fact, their list of achievements is so long, you can’t help but push yourself so that you can be on that level. Not, to get this person confused with a workaholic, the go-getter simply knows what they want in life and isn’t afraid to work for it.

2) The Leech – Commonly known as “The Emotional Vampire”. You give, give and give,and this person takes, takes and takes. This is the person who only calls you at their convenience, they unload all of their problems on you, then are incognito when you need them.

If you want to keep your positive energy up all year, burn this leech off.

Try instead:

The Guru usually a yogi, or some other deeply spiritual being, this friend has such a calming aura about them, and wisdom to boot. They are so zen, they don’t come to you every time they break a nail. In fact, you’ll find yourself going to them for life advice. Wouldn’t that be a welcomed change?

3) The Pessimist – AKA “Debbie Downer”. This person doesn’t seem to know what happiness is if it came in a package and all they had do is add water. They always have something negative to say and are extremely critical. You can’t even ask them about their day without them saying something that will absolutely kill your vibe for the week. It makes you wonder how/why you’re even friends with them. Most of this comes from them having no life, or bitterness because they aren’t fulfilled. Misery loves company. These people don’t ever change and it will only be a matter of time before you either have a big blowout with them, or worse, start becoming them. Yikes!

Try instead:

The Enthusiast – This is the person who usually has a unique set of hobbies and always have something to look forward to.They love their life, and are usually the funniest. They don’t believe in regrets, nor do they believe in holding on to sad things, which makes this friend the perfect cheerleader for when you’re feeling down.

 

4) The Drama Queen- This friend is The Child on steroids. Every other day it’s something else, they aren’t talking to you because you didn’t go get sushi with them (because they’re too self-centered to remember that you’re a vegan), or they quit their job because a coworker “keeps looking at them.” They’re even worse when they’re drunk .They’ll do anything to get attention, they have drama on Facebook and are usually the friend with the most dysfunctional relationships. Save yourself the headache and distance yourself from this train-wreck, immediately!

Try instead:

The Life Artist – These are my favorite friends. They’re usually so worldly, cultured, and they always have a great story to tell you. If there’s ever an issue, they know how to approach it with grace. Their only goal in life is being fabulous and making sure the people they love to feel fabulous too. You’ll love their fun spirit, their exquisite taste, and their ability to be open but elegant. Cheers to this friend.

5) The Broken Record – “New Year, New Me” seems to be their catch phrase.

Unfortunately, nothing can be further from the truth. Each year it’s the same thing. They’re going leave that dead-end job and go back to school. They’re going to finally start working out and traveling…the list goes on. Now, I understand that these friends mean well, but they let fear hold them back from accomplishing any real goals. And it won’t be long after that they’ll start to feel bitterness and resentment. I’m pretty sure that this is where The Pessimist started.

Try Instead:

The Adventurer – Skydiving, surfing, stamping up their passport as soon as they get it, this friend knows how to enjoy life. Every week they’re doing something that makes your jaw drop in awe. This is friend that will inspire you to step out of your boundaries, and you’ll forever love them for it. Especially when you get to tell that cute guy at the coffee shop your long list of hobbies.

So, there it is.

Start this new year completely fresh, surround yourself with uplifting people and watch how your attitude changes. You don’t need the negativity.

 

Written by Tiara Letrice, Staff Writer, #mygirlsquad