10 Positive Habits To Develop
- Start the day with a positive mind-set. Upon awakening make the commitment to face the day and whatever it brings with a positive frame of mind. Prepare yourself for the fact that everything may not go smoothly, or as planned, and be willing to handle any challenges you’re faced with (we know there will be some).
- Practice Gratitude. Be grateful for, and focus on the good things you have in your life. Many of us get in the habit of sweating the “small stuff” and let it get in the way of appreciating the important things - family, friends, good health, freedom and the many opportunities we enjoy. When we let that happen it downplays the fact that we really do have much to be grateful for.
- Learn something new. Make a conscious effort to keep your brain active and functioning at optimum levels. Learn a new vocabulary word or a new piece of information as often as you can. It will keep you sharp and alert.
- Have a good laugh. Read the comics or tell a joke just to loosen things up. It will help relieve stress, keep things light and change your perspective.
- Smile at someone. When you walk through the office, down the street or are in a store, make it a point to smile at someone to acknowledge them. It will make you both feel good. We’re usually so preoccupied and caught up in activity that we don’t take time to notice those around us.
- Give a heartfelt compliment. If you notice someone at school/work that has a new hairdo or outfit and looks especially good, or has just given a good presentation, don’t hold back, give them a compliment. Everyone enjoys positive feedback.
- Tell your spouse, family member or friend how much you appreciate them. Just as we enjoy a nice compliment now and then, it makes us feel good to know a loved one appreciates us. Quite often we take those we are closest to for granted.
- Perform an act of kindness. Do something nice just for the sake of doing it. Help an elderly person lift or carry a parcel. Clear the table after a meal if it’s not your normal routine. Offer to take your neighbor’s kids to the park or the show along with yours. It generates and promotes good will.
- Be a better listener. Take the time to listen to another’s point of view. Even if you don’t agree with what they are saying, try to put yourself in their place and understand where they’re coming from.
- Take 10-15 minutes quiet time. Give yourself a break. You deserve time to reflect and regroup too. Even a little 15-minute catnap can be surprisingly refreshing and rejuvenating.
These 10 positive habits can be incorporated into your routine at whatever intervals are comfortable for you. To be aware of them, and to practice them regularly, will help make each day more pleasant for you and those around you.
(via sillybananabird)
