Being positive is something I struggle with. It is so easy to notice little nuisances in just about everything, and the more we notice them, the harder it becomes to see the good. This happens with how we view people in the world around us. It happens with work and government and the weather and ... I could go on and on and on. On my good days, I am able to fake positivity in my interactions with others. But what people don't know is that in my head, I hear nothing but negative, negative, negative.
One of my great faults is that I'm a negative thinker. So my inner chatter sounds a lot like this: "I can never do this." "This will never end. Ever. I'm stuck doing ______ for the rest of my life." "What did I say that for? I'm an idiot." "What did I do that for? I am an idiot." "Why am I writing this? I am an idiot." I think you get the drift. (Wow that is so 80's. I'm an OLD idiot.)
In order to overcome negative chatter, one must first recognize that the problem exists. So this is just like AA: I am declaring that I have a problem. I should feel better already! (Kinda feel awkward right now, how 'bout you?) Then the next step is to surround yourself with positivity. (That's why you guys are here!) And then the next, next step is to practice positivity. Allow me to demonstrate:
1. If, by chance, your children don't go out for any sports this winter because they want to ski, so you take the plunge and purchase season ski passes, and then for some strange reason it decides not to snow, instead of complaining about it, you should say, "I am saving so much money by not having to drive to the Mountain every weekend. AND how lucky that we get to spend so much more family time together in our crowded house with absolutely nothing to do. OK, bad example. I will try again. Even though we haven't gone skiing much, we have seen the sun this winter. Priceless!
2. If, also by chance, you haven't had much time to write, instead of kicking yourself for not meeting your goals, you can say "It is so nice to take a break from eating almonds."
3. If you happen to be having a huge acne breakout on your chin, instead of saying, "Ack, I look like such a geek," you can say, "I am so lucky to have acne. People might mistake me for a teenager."
So are you ready to practice? Tell me a few troublesome spots in your life, but instead of saying it with negativity, say it with positive power!
AND ... try this one on for size: if your name happens to be Martha Stewart, and you've just found out that your career is over, how do you put a positive spin on that one? Use your creativity and tell me how you would add sugar to that news. Here's what I would say, "Think of all the money I'll save not having to drive to the studio." Or, "It looks like I'll have some days where I don't have to comb my hair."
Kay, now you try!
