Getting Along with Those Who Behave Like the Old You

Okay, you have heard it often, "Birds of a feather, flock together." So how often do you apply that saying in your own life? Over the years we outgrow certain behaviors and ways of life. For fear of losing those we have known for a long time, we continue to be around those old ways and lifestyles. As we are growing and maturing into the new way of life, it is important that we take a long hard look at people in our lives who are failing to make that transition with us. If you are not careful in your new lifestyle growth, the bad behaviors of life long friends will begin to creep back up and have you acting like your old, negative, self in no time. You do not have to make a dramatic, negative exit in order to move away from those who exhibit ways you no longer find interesting. Just simply make it clear that your old way of thinking, reacting and behaving, is a part of your past. And for the really mature, you already know that this can be "said", without you having to say very much at all. Refuse invites to hang out in environments that you have outgrown. As well as set clear rules for house visitors on what and who they bring to your home. As you move forward on your journey of change, seek out friendships with individuals who will mentor you towards a better way of living. Be encouraging to those who have yet to change. Just like it happened for you, the realization will hit one day and hopefully your new found positive energy will assist in their transition as well.