1. Understand their worldviews.

Often, negative people became toxic due to their worldviews. A poor guy may think it’s impossible to achieve his dream — whatever that dream is. I don’t have the money. I don’t have the ability. I’m poor. 

And not just their worldviews, because negativity stems from bad experiences and low self-esteem. If you want to help, make sure to understand how these people see the world. Empathize.

2. Help them solve their problems.

Offer anything you believe can help them. Even sharing your experience will do. If you’ve experienced the same struggle, let them know so they can relate. Sometimes, negative people only need someone to talk with, to share their problems and connect on a deeper level.

3. If you can’t, stay away from them but ask someone you know can help.

Sometimes, despite our effort, we just can’t connect with them. The worst thing to happen is when they lash out their negativity on us. Don’t feed it. Stay away from them, if possible. You’re just human. You have limitations. Don’t force to help people if they don’t want your help.

You can always ask someone you think can help them. After all, we are all humans. We all need help.

4. Be an example for them.

Preaching someone to change from being negative to positive rarely yield results. Because people don’t want correction they want inspiration. Let your actions inspire them. Lead as an example. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “You must be the change you want to see in the world.”