Q&A: How I Deal with Negativity - Purpose, Boundaries, and Confidence

“How do you deal with all this negativity?”

Meg asked me this question, and honestly? It’s a good one. The internet can be a rough place, and navigating negativity—especially as a 2SLGBTQIA+ person—requires intentionality and resilience. So, here’s how I do it.

1. Remember Your Purpose

I define my purpose as being the adult I needed when I was a kid.

That means:

• Being someone who leads with understanding and empathy

• Showing others that happiness is possible

• Standing up for those who need support

When you define your purpose, negativity loses some of its power. Because at the end of the day, I’m not here for them—I’m here for the people who need me.

2. Set and Guard Your Boundaries

Think of your life like a garden—something you’ve worked hard to cultivate. Are you just going to let anyone trample through it? Absolutely not.

I have clear boundaries about what I will and won’t tolerate. Negativity, bad-faith arguments, or outright hate? That’s off the table.

And here’s an important truth: a “safe space” for everyone is a safe space for no one. You don’t owe toxic people access to your time, energy, or peace.

3. Build and Maintain Confidence

This isn’t about confidence in what I can do—it’s about confidence in who I am.

There is nothing fundamentally wrong with me. And I don’t just believe that—I surround myself with people who reinforce that truth.

I also recognize that I’m privileged to be able to remove people from my life who don’t support me. Not everyone has that option. But if you can, choose to keep people around who uplift you, not tear you down.

Final Thoughts

If you’re dealing with negativity, remember these three things:

Purpose – Define why you’re here and let that guide you.

Boundaries – Protect your energy and decide what is and isn’t acceptable.

Confidence – Know your worth, and don’t let others define it for you.

Negativity is inevitable. But how much power it holds? That’s up to you.