We all know we’re supposed to have a good attitude. And much like believing people are generally good, I also believe that most people generally want to have a good attitude. I think the desire to be happy is a universal quest. Some of us look for it in love, others in money, some in things, some in careers, some in power or recognition. But if you think about it, aren’t these really all the same thing? All the activities, consuming and actions have at their root the pursuit of personal pleasure and bliss.
We all also know that life isn’t always bliss. Sometimes it’s challenging, scary or even down right lousy. No one likes breakups (think about it—neither side does—it’s tough!) or job loss or learning patience. And those are far less terrible then some of the truly scary things that lurk in dark corners or go bump in the night. Yet these scary bits are a real part of every living person’s experience.
So how do we balance keeping it “real” with keeping life hopeful?
I would suggest the few following tips, taken from my own journey (which, by the way is still in progress), for trying to move through the raw reality that might be a little uncomfortable toward the blissful, enlightened being that’s inside you, just waiting to express her(him)self.
For Instant Relief, try this Remedy:
Sometimes things are just kind of crappy and you need a little pick me up. Here are a few “magic pills” whose only side effects are increased positivity and clarity.
1) Music: put on some of your favorite pick-me-up tunes and listen, sing, or even dance along. It’s an instant cure for the blues. Seriously! I dare you to try it and see if you don’t feel better.
2) Gratitude: if you take five minutes (set a timer if you need) and only write down the things right now that you can think of that you are grateful for, I guarantee you’ll feel better. It can be as small as “I’m grateful for the delicious latte I had this morning” or as big as “I’m grateful for my life”—it doesn’t matter the size, just that you genuinely feel, think and write gratitude for those five minutes. You’ll feel better and you’ll be developing a more positive outlook on what you do have at the moment.
3) Move: take a walk, take a run, ride your bike, even just stand and stretch and jump up and down for one minute. It sounds ridiculous, but it’s ridiculously effective. Moving your body is moving your energy and trust me, it works!
For a more Long-term Solution:
1) Journal: take some time (like twenty to thirty minutes) to script out what you would like to happen in your life. It can be what you’d like to happen tomorrow, tonight, this weekend, even this year—but write it out. The more detail and enthusiasm you put behind this process and the more often you come back to it—the better you’ll feel. It really works. There’s a reason why actors study scripts to develop characters; you have to know the lines to put the emotions and actions behind the work and character you’re trying to learn and build. So write the lines that will lead you into your shining sunset.
2) Invest: An investment in you is always going to pay off. Invest in a day at the spa, a dance class, an energy or Reiki healing session, a class, or a fun activity. A great, wise investment in yourself, your development (mental, physical or skill set) is one of the best ways you can put your money into something with great value and returns.
3) Read: I highly suggest turning off the TV at night and putting yourself to bed by reading the MOST positive, uplifting, and empowering book you can get your hands on. No murder mystery, thriller, or business—a really inspiring, really powerful book about growth, miracles, gratitude or courage. Find a book that matches your highest values and vision and read it. You will put yourself to rest (and marinate for six or eight hours during sleep) focused on the best of what life has to offer. It’s a great way to have great dreams; in your sleep and your waking hours.
