On the self-help book subject, I think they teach people about being accountable for one's actions. People hate being accountable for their actions at the end of the day, hence excuses, which (according to Taffer
and most every self-help book) are just bull. Sometimes, you cannot learn these things from co-workers, family, friends and a book is what you turn to. Of course there are alot of self-help books that might be considered a time-waster but anything that can help you to actively improve your current life cannot be so bad. Suc as if you actively choose to be negative, fine, its your choice. If you choose to be positive, again your choice. I am not here to judge you.
In regards to negative people rarely bother me anymore because they usually just want a negative reaction from me/wasting my time. Since time is something you can never get back, to react to them is pointless. Just a tip of the day
