How to avoid drama in your life

You don't want no drama, no, no drama, no, no, no, no drama! Truthfully speaking, who needs any more drama in their life? Aren’t we already dealing with enough! Take it from the Black Eyed Peas infamous "My Humps" lyrics and say no, no, no, no! Learning how to avoid drama is an essential skill for reducing stress and anxiety so you can live a peaceful life, and these tips will help you achieve just that.   

Experts say drama is usually created by people who seek attention and need more excitement in their life -- know someone who fits this description perfectly? Well before we begin, let’s make one thing clear: 

Drama can actually be in your control!

You always have a choice over your actions or reactions, so what's your type? 

1) The add fuel to the fire type by getting involved  

2) Or the let it burn out by distancing yourself from the problem type

Maybe you don’t think you’re a culprit but have been guilty of..

• Exaggerating
• Gossiping
• Giving unsolicited advice
• Getting involved in other people’s business 

In that case you may be playing devil’s advocate! Once you can separate your involvement in other people’s problems you will be able to control the drama that flows into your life. Plus you will realize how much better off you are and can make greater use of your valuable time! 

Taking account of our actions first and becoming more aware that drama can be a choice will help ease you out of these uncomfortable situations. Here are useful tips you can try to avoid it at all costs:

Strategies for avoiding unnecessary drama

• Say no 
• Be honest 
• Stop gossiping
• Focus on yourself 
• Think before you act
• Mind your own business 
• Only give advice when asked
• Choose your circle of friends wisely 

Overall, constantly dealing with drama is unhealthy, therefore it’s important for your mental well-being to reflect upon your relationships and consider these 4 things Psychology Today suggests are critical when it comes to addressing drama:  

1. Evaluate your relationships

This is done by evaluating the quality of your friendships and minimizing contact with those who require too much of your precious time and energy. I think it’s safe to say we all know or have had one of those draining friends that require all of your attention. These people that bring about too much drama are simply no good for our mental wellness, it’s important to be surrounded by people who are easy to be around, that bring more positivity and less negativity to your life.  

2. Strategize 

You can’t change or fix someone no matter how hard you try, or how good your intentions are. It is up to the person and the person alone to want to make a change. However, you can never be too prepared for a situation, so it's important to know the red flags of drama seekers! 

3. Consider your actions

Always listen and observe before getting involved in any conversation that may become emotional or reactive. If someone doesn’t ask you for advice, don’t give it and don’t try to find a solution to their issues either, simply try to redirect the conversation to something more neutral to help mediate the conversation.     

4. Prioritize yourself

It’s essential to prioritize yourself before anything else. As important as it is to care for other people when they need you, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your well-being at the expense of someone else *cough* drama seekers. The more you can focus on yourself and your own life the less time you will have to worry about others!