163: How to Respond to Negativity (7 Steps)

163: How to Respond to Negativity (7 Steps)

From Unstuck with Jay Abbasi by Jay Abbasi

April 24, 2026 · 13 min · Season 1 · Episode 163

About this episode

Jay Abbasi provides a framework for responding to negativity in both personal and professional settings.

You can’t control negativity, but you can control what happens next. In this solo episode, Jay breaks down a practical, step-by-step framework for handling complaints, venting, and negativity without getting pulled into it. Whether it’s in the workplace or your personal life, these moments require a balance of empathy and intention. Drawing from real-world experience and timeless principles, Jay explains the critical difference between reacting and responding, and how a simple pause can shift the entire outcome of a conversation. He walks through seven clear steps to help you acknowledge others without reinforcing negativity, guide conversations toward solutions, and maintain a positive, grounded presence. Notable Quotes “To respond is positive. To react is negative.” — Zig Ziglar “A response is composed, logical, and intentional.” — Jay Abbasi “You can acknowledge how someone feels without agreeing with their logic.” — Jay Abbasi Resources and Links Jay Abbasi Website: https://jayabbasi.me/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayabbasi/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayabbasi_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thejayabbasi/ YouTube…

People in this episode

Host: Jay Abbasi

Topics covered

  • negativity
  • communication
  • empathy
  • personal development
  • workplace dynamics

Keywords

  • negativity
  • response
  • empathy
  • communication
  • seven steps

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