There are people in this world that I like to call “joy thieves.” You know who they are. Anytime something is going well for someone, they like to point out a problem with it. They go out of their way to find the negative in every situation.
Since the popularity of social media, their presence has become even more apparent. You read their snarky comments on joy filled posts, or even worse, they use social media to call someone out or bring someone down.
I know a woman who spends a good portion of each day scrolling social media to tear down other women. We have many mutual friends, and I always see her strike when someone announces something positive is happening. For example, I have this friend whose business is focused on helping other women. She recently celebrated a work anniversary and this woman made an insinuation that she was doing something unethical to gain clients.
I know a woman who follows my social media and coincidently every time I’m out of town and posting fun things, she makes a phone call to my landlord to report my employees for one thing or another, like where they placed the mannequins. We all know it’s to shake things up and temporarily steal our joy, but, the thing is it doesn’t work if you can recognize what it is. Eventually, everyone sees the joy thief for who they are. No one wants to be around people who are constantly hurting others.
Recently I even discovered from a customer of mine that a local business complimented her on an outfit she was wearing. She told the business owner where she bought it and told her she should come in and see us. The business owner told the customer that our things “just don’t fit right.” This was disappointing because:
- I know for a fact she’s never tried anything on.
- I promote her business to my customers all of the time.
What she didn’t realize, was that she lost our mutual customer for being negative about my business.
That’s what I mean about joy thieves, their mission becomes very obvious to everyone after a while. If you have the unfortunate experience of having to deal with a joy thief on a regular basis, and can’t block or “delete” them, know that ultimately everyone sees them for who they are. Continue to celebrate your victories and do it publicly so we can all be joyful with you and for you. We need as many positive messages and celebrations as we can to get us through life’s challenges and obstacles. Don’t allow the joy thieves to steal your thunder because ultimately, it affects all of us. Share your joy!
I loved your message this morning. I LOVE shopping at Jill Alexander — the clothes are always so lovely, the staff and Jill are wonderful to work with and I always leave feeling great with some wonderful clothes and accessories for my wardrobe. People who are always the “Negative Nellies” are very sad and unhappy people and think they can make themselves feel better by putting someone else down. It only hurts themselves. Those of us who have the delight of knowing Jill and shopping at the wonderful shops get it! I’m sorry for those who aren’t brave enough to step outside themselves and their small world to find joy and experience some happiness for themselves.
Thanks, Jill, for the wonderful experience you have created for so many of us with your thoughtful and lovely designs. Much Love, Cheryl