Refuse to Engage in Malicious Gossip

Count to ten and tell your friend that you're breaking the gossip habit. Counting is one of those techniques you can use to manage a behavior that you choose to avoid. It's a powerful technique in anger management and can also be used when you don't wish to gossip. Malicious gossip is mean, and some experts declare it nothing less than a form of bullying. Step back, count to ten, and remove yourself from the gossip clique. Don't take part in the mudslinging. Feel happy knowing that you didn't and your friend might see the error of it as well. Finding things to praise about others inspires people to feel happy whereas gossiping does just the opposite.