“How do you deal with someone with a bad attitude?”

I imagine this feels tricky because, as you mentioned, the person you’re speaking about is a friend. I assume you want to maintain a level of friendship that feels good for you. Sometimes we can deal with these types of situations using effective communication skills. Other times we may realize that despite our best efforts, the other person is remaining the same, and that’s when we work towards acceptance, shifting our expectations, and perhaps boundaries for ourselves which is the part we have control over. In other situations we may ultimately realize that the friendship had run its course. I imagine the latter could feel sad. Not all relationships/friendships are meant to last forever. I wish you the best in the course of action you choose!

There are only a few things besides being honest and saying it nicely. Use "I feel" statements. I feel _______ when you _______.

Sometimes we can summarize and validate their feelings. "It sounds like you don't want to do XYZ because it's boring to you. However, I'd like for us to do something together we both want to do."

Another is to decrease how much you tell your friend and even how long and how frequent you hang out. These are things you have control over. Sometimes a natural consequence is pulling away.

Most of us don't realize that when we wake up irritable and negative or experience that on a regular basis, it can be the way depression shows up. Of course, it depends on the person's lifestyle, living situation, among other things too. This can be common with ADD/ADHD.

Interact and when they are being negative, counteract it with a positive by comparing when it was worse, or pointing out something that is still good about a situation. If nothing seems to help, let them know that they are being negative and that you are going to take a break from the conversation. Sometimes you may have to avoid interactions. It is not your job to change the person, just your level of engagement.

Thank you for the question. The short answer is listen. A bit longer answer is talk. Maybe even longer is assess for willingness or readiness, listen first, reflect understanding to deescalate, and seek a licensed provider. The provider will guide towards supporting how to build your belief in how you approach. If you want to learn more please reach out. I would love to hear your story. Blessings, Dr Joe

Well here are a few steps that can help you
1. Listen without judgment.
2. Take control of your time.
3. Act with intention, don't react.
4. Set boundaries.
5. Accept responsibility
6. Be secure in yourself and decisions with this person

Provide a sympathetic and unjudging ear. If they ask to hear your thoughts, offer them gently and calmly.

See this link...
https://www.trakstar.com/blog-post/handle-successful-employee-bad-attitude/
and
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20141021105650-144250610-how-successful-people-handle-toxic-people/