To some extent you can choose the people you talk to.  

Choose wisely.  

Doing so follows the 80/20 Rule, which says you get 80% of the benefits from 20% of any population, including people.  (also movies, vacation spots, books, pets, etc.)

The best include interesting people from whom you learn and positive people who like and validate you.

Avoid toxic people, both friends and strangers, like narcissists, argumentative folks, needy energy sappers, and highly judgmental types.

(FYI, an August 2011 "Toxic Friends Survey" by SELF magazine reported that 83 percent of women admitted staying in friendships with a "frenemy" because it felt too tough to end it.)

If you can't completely avoid toxic people (as in your workplace), you can still, with civility, keep your distance.  At social events, be polite, yet brief.  Choose to spend your precious time with the best people.   

Until next time,

Loren