From Surviving to Thriving

There is so much happening in the world that is negative, and all of it gets the spotlight in our news and media. It can truly feel like the sky is falling at times! Logically we know it can't really be all bad news - so how do we shift our attention off of the negative and build the positive? Is it really possible?

I believe it is not only possible it is imperative! Do you remember the story of the secret garden? Initially it looked dead, choaked by weeds and neglect. But with some attention and love it bloomed again. Our lives, just like nature, flow in cycles. Tho we don't get to choose what comes to us we can choose how we want to respond.

No matter how gray and dark things can become they can bloom again! It is possible to move from just surviving to thriving even if the outer circumstances stay the same. We all go through challenging times - the difference between those who thrive and those who survive (often barely) is outlook and choice. Choose to not let the world and it's woes, or even your woes, define who you are and how you are going to experience your life.

Here are 3 steps to help

1. Turn off the TV and radio news! On the internet - change your settings on your home page for positive fun things, and turn off the news slide show! Yes it really is possible. Get the headlines only (put them on the bottom of the page where you can look at them when you want to), and then only read what is really important for you to know.
2. Make a list of what increases happiness and joy for you - and then do at least 1 per day. It doesn't have to be fancy or costly. Maybe it is watching a beautiful sunset, taking a walk and noticing how spring is blooming all around, or spending time with a loved one (pets qualify!). Listen to upbeat music and sing along! It is hard to stay down or grumpy when you are singing. Research shows that singing even strenthens your immune system. It doesn't even have to be good singing!
3. Look for things to appreciate and be grateful for during your day. Then on your way to sleep at night think of at least 3 things you are grateful for. Again simple stuff. After a hard day, 1 of them could be that you get to go to sleep in your wonderful bed and let go of the day!

I want to challenge us all to make some new conscious choices. Are you up for the challenge? Practice these 3 steps for 1 - 2 weeks and notice what is happening in your life and world, and report them back here as a comment. The shifts may surprise you! After all what have you got to lose?