Five tactics to mitigate negative group influence

1. Avoid competition and relentless comparisons. Whether it be through social media or simply keeping up with others in your real-life social networks, comparing yourself to others and only feeling good when you are ahead of the pack is a oneway ticket to unhappiness.

2. Budget. Be aware of your means and live well within them. The 80/20 rule is always a good start (live on 80% of your income and invest the rest).

3. Invest time to find shared hobbies that don’t break the bank to build strong relationships, but also find time for yourself. Wellbeing starts with you.

4. Be rid of the those who judge and associate with positive people – those you can have fun with, and share your financial ups and downs to learn from each other.

5. Turn the tables. Talk and be proud of your financially sound habits or goals. Be the one to consciously influence your group.