Givers, Takers and Emotional Vampires

Over the years I have observed that most people fall into one of three categories that I have named Givers, Takers, and Emotional Vampires. It’s pretty easy to figure out that Givers are heart -entered lovers who’s first consideration is the other person. They provide love, comfort, support, care, compassion and empathy. Givers make any room they walk into, and the world, a better place. Takers walk into most situations thinking, “what’s in this for me?” They are not necessarily bad people, they are just me-centric. Takers are also very capable of giving, it’s just not their starting place. (I confess that I fall into this category, my beloved Brian is a Giver to the max!)

There are a lot of takers who believe they are primarily givers….they want to see themselves as these great, compassionate folks but they operate out of unconscious needs and self interest hoping we won’t see what they are really up to. Generally their requests come with a super sweet tone of voice and they preface things by telling you how much they love you, care for you and “oh by the way can you do X,Y, Z for me?” And, some part of you ends of feeling slimed but you don’t know why.

And then, there are the emotional vampires. These folks are predatory, parasitic, and bad for your health. They want to feed off your energy by demanding your attention. They are quite often Drama Kings and Drama Queens and while it can be interesting or amusing to listen to their tales of woe (and maybe even have you feeling like your life is pretty good compared to theirs) this is a one-sided relationship and there are no goodies in it for you.

I am bringing this to your attention because it is now officially Spring and it’s a great time of year to clear out the clutter in your home and in your life.

Spend a little time looking to see if you are inadvertently feeding any emotional vampires and if you are, are you willing to banish them from your life???

And then, look and see who the Givers are in your life, and is there any thing special you would like to do for them to show your love, gratitude and appreciation?

And finally, look and see how you are showing up in your world? Where and with whom are you a Giver?

A Taker?

Maybe even an emotional vampire?

For me, I am committing to be more like Brian….I want to stretch myself and find new ways to be more of a Giver and less of a Taker. And for sure there are a few emotional vampires I plan to banish instantly!

Wishing you love, laughter and magical kisses,

Arielle