Nothing can lift or plummet our outlook on life like our almighty attitude. So in this first week of 2014, take stock of yours. Is it healthy and robust? Or negative and contaminating?

Do you find yourself already lapsing into the woe-is-me thinking of 2013? Is the thrill that accompanies the headiness of a new year already nosediving into a familiar bleakness? 

Caution ahead 

DANGER! DO NOT ENTER! Back away immediately from the well-traveled mental roads leading nowhere.

A new year is the perfect time to challenge yourself to think and act differently to get different results. Now is the time to turn those resolutions into reality. The journey toward achieving your goals begins with the most powerful engine you own: your mind. 

Throughout this year, there will be times when you sputter, race, crash, cruise or run out of gas. Whatever happens, your attitude can either help or hinder your journey.

The good news is we are just a few days into 2014 and you have more than 355 left to pump up your positive thinking.  A fresh, energetic and optimistic attitude can improve health, relationships and job performance and help you navigate life’s unexpected curves.

Attitude adjustment tools

So how do you stay chipper when the challenges of life seem to work overtime to dull your shine?

Here are some action steps:

Fill up on gratitude. Start your day by saying aloud three things you are grateful for. Better yet, tell someone. Or make it a family practice.

Reflect and write. You may want to start a gratitude journal and regularly list what you appreciate. Read it on New Year’s Eve.

See also
4 Ways to Ace the Exit Interview

Grow from setbacks.  Instead of throwing a pity party where you are the guest of honor, explore how you can improve your skills.

Seek out upbeat people.  Surround yourself with positive thinkers. Emulate them.

Judge less. People are flawed. Avoid making their shortcomings your concern.

Help others.  Sometimes the only way to lift your spirit is to lift others. 

Laugh at yourself.  Chances are, people are doing so anyway. Join them by showing you don’t take yourself so seriously.

Share your approaches if you already have a winning attitude. We’d love to hear them.

Robin Farmer is an award-winning writer with a focus on health, education and business. Visit her at www.RobinFarmerWrites.com


 

Robin Farmer
Latest posts by Robin Farmer (see all)
Ad
Share This