“Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.” Sir Winston Churchill.

We are in the middle of a General Election campaign here in the UK. It appears to me that there is so much negativity around the various campaigns. There seems to be a significant amount of focus by the various political parties on outlining the flaws of their opponent’s plans.

There also seems to be an absence of the various parties putting forward and promoting with conviction a positive version of their own plans and vision for the future. All of this creates quite a toxic and negative environment which is widely reported on by the media. Therefore, it can be challenging to maintain a positive attitude.

As a result, I thought it to be an appropriate time to share some ideas and suggestions to maintain a positive attitude: –

  1. Defer worrying. Put off worrying until you have a reason to worry. We can all spend lots of time locked in our heads imagining all sorts of scenarios that never actually happen. I was told that 70% of what we worry about never happens, 25% is trivia and 5 % is out of our control.
  2. Be self – disciplined. Setting clear goals and taking daily action helps raise your esteem and confidence levels. Having daily rituals mean that you will make the best use of your time. Many people resist structure for fear that it sucks the fun out of their life, when in fact it gives them the freedom to make the most of their leisure time.
  3. Appreciate all that you have in life. Take a few minutes each day to write down 3 things that you’re grateful for. It helps you focus your mind on what you have rather than what you lack. This develops an abundance mindset rather than one of scarcity. Like attracts like, this simple act will attract even more things to be grateful for into your life.
  4. Hang out with positive people. Be discerning about the company that you keep. Avoid toxic people and situations. Associate with people that have belief and faith in you and encourage you to develop and grow. Socialise with people that aim high, think positivity, genuinely care about you and make you laugh. Be that person for them too.
  5. Remember to laugh. Nothing increases your mood and energy levels more than a good belly laugh. The news coverage can contain lots of negative and sad stories. Regularly watch things that make you laugh. Take a break from news bulletins and newspapers from time to time. Read something funny or look at a book of humorous cartoons.
  6. Keep a journal. If you do find that your mood dips or you’re having a challenging time, write down your feelings and frustrations as this will help release any hurt, confusion or negative thoughts. It externalises what you’re thinking and brings clarity, calmness and a sense of balance. It helps restore you to a state of positivity.
  7. Maintain your boundaries. Say no when you need to without feeling guilty. We all have limited time and energy and it’s important we address our own needs. Saying yes, when you actually want to say no does nothing for your self-esteem and can have a negative impact on your mood.
  8. Practice self-care. Make good health an absolute priority. If you have good health, you have everything and it helps you to keep good energy levels and a positive frame of mind. Your health truly is your wealth. Aerobic exercise releases endorphins and helps to reduce body tension. Get sufficient sleep and count your calories.

 
This week why not pause for a few moments to reflect. Consider what steps you can take to maintain and increase your positivity levels.

To arrange a free no obligation consultation, please contact Stephen Pauley via the contact form or by e mail: Stephen@befirstclass.co.uk