Beware the Victim Virus

The only true victims are those who are dead and buried and have no recourse to change their circumstances. Like her or despise her, Casey Anthony, recently released from jail, has this opportunity in her life. She can play the role of victim, bemoaning the past few years, or accept the current state of affairs and move on from here. Much of this will hinge on who she surrounds herself with, people who talk and act like victims or those who live their lives focused on hope and possibility.

While most of us have not been faced with this depth of life drama, we are often surrounded by people who live the life of the victim. Beware these people as they draw you into their negative gravitational pull and, as a result, impact your thinking, infecting you with their victim mentality. Instead, immerse yourself in communities of people who see the bright side and find ways to always turn lemons into lemonade.

Comment by Stuart Folley on July 18, 2011 at 5:51pm: A positive mental attitude will propel you to where you want to go. I am firm believer in the law of attraction and that you reap what you sow.

Comment by Scott Wintrip on July 19, 2011 at 11:13am: Agreed Stuart. I've witnessed thousands of examples of this in action.

Comment by Bill Ward on July 19, 2011 at 1:04pm: Scott,

Are you finding a lot of this within your own network of peers? I definitely noticed that there are times after fighting uphill battles for clients one can become frustrated. I think the key to changing one's attitude can be as simple as a great call with a potential candidate or a smaller less known company that really needs the help and wants to take next steps. This business is full of highs and very low lows. Many of us tend to be very guarded to admitting when we are struggling which compounds the frustration and in some cases, desperation. People need to realize that asking for help can be one of the most courageous and life altering things one can do.

Comment by Scott Wintrip on July 19, 2011 at 1:17pm: Bill, I do not find this in my network because I pride myself on living a drama-free life and refuse to spend time with people who spread this virus. I agree with you that often all anyone needs is a positive infusion...which can include a great conversation or, even better, a closed deal. There are two ways to view everything and we have to choose the good or the bad.

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