Today was a much easier day to be negativity free, there were a couple of moments when it could have gone either way but I simply said, “That’s negativity, let me try again.” Then I restated what I said in a more neutral way. A young teacher gave me props (his word) for self correcting. I’m talking less because it takes time to think about how to say what I want to say in a neutral way. Sometimes it’s just easier to say nothing.
I’ve told people at work and in my social circle about this challenge. The response has been interesting. Some people are M.I.A., I don’t see them anymore and at least two of them go out of their way to avoid speaking to me. J, the friend whose penchant for negativity got me started on this, normally calls a couple of times a week. She hasn’t called since I told her about this challenge and why I was doing it. I’ve thought about calling her several times but I find myself not wanting to and don’t.
A young woman I work with who heard about the challenge came to me, concerned, “I hope you don’t stop being you.” I must have looked as puzzled as I felt because she explained that she admired me for being direct and to the point and not sugar coating the truth when it needed to be spoken. I didn’t know what to say, other than, knowing myself the way I do, I didn’t think there was much chance of that happening. I’m passionate, intense, outspoken and, well, vibrant. How much more of those things will I be without negativity marring the beauty and strength of them?
I LOVE your story.It should be Eat,Pray,Love in England and mine France.I would love to continue chatting with you and encourage you to write about your own experience.SO wonderful....
Michele
To reply to your question - 3 years ago I left the States to live in England after my divorce. I have lived alone here since then, found a pretty good job and have managed to support myself all through that time without using up savings. 
Perfect!
Hmmm, I could have written this. I am all and more of what you have written. Through the years as I offended others, and didn’t understand why they couldn’t take my honesty I avoided social situations. I shoot from the hip, NEVER, BUT NEVER did I purposely mean to hurt anyone. But, I did. Now, I STOP and try REALLY REALLY hard to think before I speak. This is not an easy task.
I have learned to accept myself and understand I need to discern what to say and when. Being fully aware has helped tremendously. Yes, I have lost friends along the way. It is all a process. I am growing and learning each day. One day at a time. Thanks for your post.
In the spirit world, like attracts like. When negativity dissolves from our lives, negative spirits are no longer attracted to us. For years I craved a peaceful world but my spirit was not at peace. Amazing how that has changed by cultivating an inward peace.