Beware of Energy Vampires

When we speak of energy vampires we’re not alluding to Twilight's teenage heart throb, Edward Cullen. Instead, we’re speaking of that unassuming person, when in their presence, drains our energy. If you’ve ever experienced this, you may have fallen victim to an energy vampire.

Now keep in mind, these vampires are not aware of the effect they have on others. In fact, more often than not, we’re not even mindful that someone else is responsible for our drained energy. We usually shrug it off, blaming it on a long trying day.

Energy vampires need others to draw energy from because they’re emotionally, physically or spiritually unhappy. Their victims are usually anyone willing to give them the time of day. Because of their never ending feelings of abandonment, rejection or dissatisfaction with their lives, they seek constant reassurance. Their modus operandi is to withdraw from other’s emotional bank account without any intention of ever making a deposit.

One sure fire way of keeping this from ever happening is to avoid all contact with these emotional drainers. However, unless you decide to totally withdraw from society, that's highly improbable. Nevertheless, there are ways to protect yourself when in their presence.

1. Become aware of who they are, and limit your time in their company.
2. Don't let them suck you into their drama. Listen quietly, respectfully acknowledge their pain, and move on.
3. Don't try to fix their problems. They own them, and it's theirs to fix.
4. When they play the blame game, and you're it, politely cut them off and walk away.
5. When in their presence, surround yourself with positive energy.