Today is another installment of The Best Part with Folgers. I decided to share how I cultivate positivity and optimism in my daily life. First, I'd like to say that it does not always come naturally to me. Some days I am inclined to throw myself a pity party because I haven't been on a vacation in years. Or get down on myself for losing my patience with my "challenging" three-year-old again. It's easy to feel like everyday is going to be hard when it begins with morning sickness. Heck, I'm even partial to complaining that our California weather is too nice; I want to wear my boots already! Don't even get me started on what I read in the news. All of these little negative thoughts can add up to one big old bad mood.
Luckily, focusing on just a few good things, no matter how small, can turn the whole thing around.
1. Get outside. Nothing improves my mood, or that of my preschooler's, like fresh air. It can be as simple as sipping coffee on the front porch or as thrilling as an impromptu trip to the beach. When in doubt, go out.
2. Give thanks. When we focus on what we've got we worry less about what we might be lacking. For me, the easiest way to make gratitude a habit is by keeping a gratitude journal. I also try to catch myself when the "I wants" and "why me's" crop up, I stop what I'm doing and think of five things I'm thankful for. Sometimes this is a bit of a "fake 'til you make it" exercise, but it often helps almost immediately.
3. Pay it forward. Positivity is easiest to find when you work to create it. It can be as simple as smiling at everyone you meet, as easy as paying a heartfelt compliment. Or you could take it a step further by volunteering your time or resources to a good cause.
What tips do you have for focusing on the positive? Does it come naturally to you or do you have work at it?
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