Many of us have been snarked-and didn't know it at the time. Oblivious to the fact that negative influencers are out to snatch our power, we may be innocent victims of snarkdom at many times in our lives. How about you? Has a snark attempted to crush your dreams?

From the worst types-ego snarks, sexist snarks and user or con-artist snarks-to just plain annoying types-people-pleasing/social-climbing snarks, complainer snarks and bubble-bursting snarks-they are everywhere. In your office, at the store and even in your family.

If you have snarks in your life, you may need to focus on silencing them. How do you accomplish this? By being the real you! Being okay with yourself, retaining your power and harnessing your potential are imperative to combating all types of snarks, whether you encounter an ego snark, complainer snark, or bubble busting snark.

Snarks prey on other people because they aren't comfortable with their own abilities. They tend to form parasitic relationships to bring others down for their momentary self-promotion. Don't let yourself become susceptible to snark attacks from others. For example, when a complainer snark starts in on a rant, change the subject to something positive. Once you do this a few times, they'll get the hint that their complaining isn't welcome. Stand strong and make sure you maintain a positive disposition.

On the flip side of things, do you ever catch yourself acting snarky? Sure, it happens to everybody once in a while, but you want to make sure it doesn't become a permanent part of your character. By being real and being you, you'll be sure to steer clear of snarkiness.

For more information on snarks, check out snarkinfestedwaters.com.