Don't Worry, Be Happy: Creating a Positive Every Day

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By Rachel Derry
Staff Writer LIFamilies

One of our biggest blessings in life (which can also many times be considered a curse) is our wide range of emotions and the intensity and depth with which we are able to feel them. This can often be construed as a curse because more often than not we chose to feel and focus on the negative emotions available to us. We become over-stressed; we are fearful, angry, and depressed. We become desperate or feel an utter sense of hopelessness. All of these emotions are very real and, at times, very necessary to feel as human beings. In most of our cases, however, the issue is not the emotions, but rather our subconscious decision to dwell on them.

In everyone's life there are decisions to make and paths to follow. Another of life's blessings is free-will and the ability to follow our own "destinies" however we deem fit. Why not, then, take the path less traveled in a more positive degree and fill our own days with light?

Everyday there are simple choices we can make to brighten our day, and the days of those around us. We can chose to wallow in happy tidings rather than dwell on negative emotions, and it doesn't need to take up any more time of your already hectic day!

Take the time to say thank you, and be grateful for the kindness and good deeds around you. How many times a day do you actually stop and thank a person who lends you a hand; opens the door for you, brings you an item from the printer, stops and picks up an item you dropped, etc. They assisted you without thought, and a thank you will be the ultimate reinforcement for their already nice habits. Be sure to also show your appreciation for those in your life. Tell your significant other how much you appreciate your time together; let your friends know how much your relationship means; tell your family how grateful you are to have them in your life.

Notice all the great things in life, rather than the things that frustrate you. We all have bad habits and unpleasant characteristics. Rather than focusing on them, instead note all of the good and kind aspects of yourself and the people around you. Instead of cursing at the traffic you are stuck in appreciate an extra moment of down time; listen to your favorite music and decompress from your day, or plan out how you would like the rest of your day to go. The glass is only half empty if you let it be.

No matter how your day started or how it's currently going, put a smile on your face! You may not be feeling it, but put a little energy into making the smile genuine. You'll find that not only do those around you have a similar grin, but that your smile is no longer forced. A real smile can cheer anyone up, including the smiler!

Cut down on the negativity in your life and avoid poisons. Life can make it difficult enough to stay positive without adding outside depressants on top of it. Whatever depresses and stresses you out should be cut out or at least cut down on. This may be an emotional style of music or book, this may be the television news or a newspaper, or it may be certain people in your life. To help keep you light and content surround yourself with positive people and associations.

In your free time keep yourself moving. Whether you get to the gym for a quick workout, head outside for a brisk walk, or keep busy around the house, cleaning and straightening just keep yourself moving. Movement and activity trigger your endorphins, which helps cheer you up naturally. You will also be rewarded by the sense of accomplishment that comes along with the activity.

Long Island Health, Fitness & Beauty Articles > Don't Worry, Be Happy: Creating a Positive Every Day