What will you choose?
“Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them become what they are capable of being”.-Johann Wolfing von Goethe
Good Morning! A lot of women have asked me: “How do I stay positive and focused when everything seems to be falling apart or becoming challenging?” Some of these women are battling unsupportive husbands or family members. Other women are struggling with gossip and negativity. Some women are fighting illness; others, depression. Other women are plagued by so many “minor” issues that they have developed a “major” weight on their shoulders.
I have been at that place, where choosing old patterns and turning away from progress seemed easier than turning toward challenging life to be the best it can be. Here are some of the tips and tools I have used to stay positive, regardless of what is going on in my life at the moment.
Let go of “fair”: Sometimes when we get down, it is because we don’t feel things are going as they should, or that we are getting the help we deserve. We can easily focus on the injustice of the situation or what is wrong with people or the situation around us. Focusing on the external won’t help you internally. Instead, focus on what you can control and how you can positively influence others.
Remember that a lot can happen in a day: Just because this moment isn’t ideal, doesn’t mean the next moment can’t be. Instead of focusing on what isn’t working, be open to the idea that something great can happen today.
Count your blessings: When our surroundings or situation gets us down, it is easy to count the many things that are wrong with our life. Switch perspectives by counting your blessings. Like attracts like. Count how many things are wrong with your life and surely the list will multiply. Count the many things that are positive in your life and they will multiply instead.
Take a break: When we are tired (either emotionally or physically,) staying positive can be an uphill battle that leaves us feeling frustrated. Instead of forcing it, take a break to recharge. Whether it is ten minutes or a day, find some space to relax and nurture yourself. Enjoy lunch or coffee with a positive friend. If you don’t have a positive friend, have lunch or coffee with a positive book or inspirational audio.
Get a cheerleader: A community of like-minded, positive women can do wonders! Consider joining our e-group for a wonderful community of positive women to turn to for ideas and support.
I will survive: I love that song! Create a CD of music that is uplifting to you and listen to it when the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Recall other situations you have overcome and realize that you have the power to overcome whatever you are currently facing.
Your Turn: Action is one of the greatest remedies for frustration, fear, worry, or sadness. Choose one area in your life that needs improvement right now and make improvement a priority in your life. Make a list of seven action steps you can take this week so that by next week the situation will be different.
Today’s Affirmation: I choose how I feel each day-and I choose to be positive.
Just released: Good Morning: 365 Positive Ways to Start Your Day by Brook Noel - You’ll find 365 Good Morning entries to inspire you throughout the year. Order your autographed copy by clicking here.
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December 10th, 2008 at 7:06 am
Brook:
I loved this Good Morning. The quote at the beginning made me think about my daughter. I’m posting it on my mirror to remind me to expect the best from her.
I love the suggestions for thinking/being positive. I don’t know if you saw it or not, but I listed my blessings on the November question forum. It immediately improved my state of mind and mood for the day.
Thanks for all you do!
Tricia
December 10th, 2008 at 8:52 am
I am a very hard worker at my office but I find myself comparing my work habits to that of others at my job and wonder how they can leave early, come in late and have a myriad of other “faults”. What may seem unfair to me may make perfect sense in their environment. I have to remind myself to back up and take care of my world, not try to judge others in theirs. This is a priority for me. It takes a lot of time to worry, judge, compare with other people; time I can and should devote to my life and my family.
December 10th, 2008 at 9:56 am
If you love I WILL SURVIVE, you’ll adore this music card I sent for Thanksgiving from American Greetings:
http://www.americangreetings.com/ecards/display.pd?lpage=deptcarousel&prodnum=3150388&N=374470&navtype=ethxbb
Enjoy
December 10th, 2008 at 10:36 am
This was a very timely piece for me. It is awesome how when you need some wisdom all you have to do is be open and it will come from somewhere. My 8 year old granddaughter has had to come to live with us temporarily and she struggles every day with seeing teh positive when all around her is negative in her eyes. I and my husband are struggling with that too. Looking for ways to assist her to look ahead and continue to do her best every day is a challenge. At this young age it is as important to stay positive as it is for us as adults. Thank you for just teh right words when I needed them most.
December 10th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
hi, it is wonderfully fascinating how I hear and/or read what I need when I need it. Just how does that work? No matter, I’m so glad the Universe has my best interests at heart…love and hugs, Janice