Now, more than ever, it’s important to try to be positive. Yes, these past couple of weeks have been tough for so many and the next few will not be easier. We’re all finding it difficult to stay positive, but your mindset is key to keeping it all together. I must admit, I have good hours and bad hours in my day. But, in the end, there are some things I’ve been doing to keep an optimistic attitude and outlook on life right now.
One thing I know is that during difficult times, we have a choice on how we respond to challenges. We can choose to focus completely on the issue, let it consume your thoughts and just decide to curl up in a ball. Trust me, it’s tempting. OR… we can choose to accept the challenge, brainstorm opportunities and figure out new and creative ways to move beyond it, in spite of it. I am choosing the latter. We have to take this time to shift our thinking and stay grounded. Positivity can be viewed as a choice. And it’s the right one, I promise. There are many articles and data that suggests that having an optimistic outlook on life can increase your mood, your health and your relationships with others. I realize it’s easier said than done, but here are a few things I’m doing in my own life.
Here are some tips you can use to help boost your spirits:
Be thankful! An attitude of gratitude will go far. I’m reminded to be thankful for all that God has blessed me with. I know it may seem like all of the negatives are outnumbering the positives, but it’s important to be thankful for the gifts He’s given us instead of dwelling on all the negative. Making a list of everything you have to grateful for can be cathartic.
Find the things in your life you can control. It's important to try and focus on the things you can control right now. You can control your daily routine for example. Get up on time, go to your designated work space and get on with your day to be productive.
Disconnect for a while. Turn off the news. Sure, I’m tempted to watch every single press conference and news outlet morning, noon and night. I want to be informed, but I have decided that I can’t marinate in it all day. It’s not helping me to be productive and move forward in my business. I decided to catch up on the news at night. That’s allowing me to focus on the work at hand.
Now’s the time for ideas! Let your creative juices flow. This is the perfect time for you to brainstorm new ideas for your business, or maybe find a new productive hobby or side hustle. I recently challenged my team to brainstorm on how we can expand or highlight our services during this time. Having a creative project is an easy way to increase your mood and occupy your time.
Make the most of your relationships. We are not alone. That is very important to remember right now. Let’s check on our friends, family and neighbors as so many are struggling with depression and mental health. This pandemic is a challenge for anyone, and we need to be present with those we love. So, take advantage Skype, FaceTime, Zoom etc. It’s important that they know we love them and we’re here for them even if they’re not in the same room or city for that matter. Having that human interaction is a necessity during a hard time. I’ve been making it a point to revisit hilarious stories with my friends and family. When I hang up, it sure lifts the mood.
I hope that these suggestions can help you stay positive through this time. Just remember, this too shall pass.
But in the meantime, stay healthy and optimistic. Remember, we’re all in this together.
Well, that’s all I have for now.
Thanks to Sarah Parrish for her help with this blog post.