In our previous post, we talked about how important it is to have a positive attitude for recovery. Sure we know we should be positive. But how? What can we do every day to be positive?
Below are five simple tips for a positive attitude.
1. Be enthusiastic! (!!!!)
There are so many things in life to be excited about—the beauty of nature, the joy of friendship, the smiles of our children. Life is a gift, so live it with enthusiasm.
Success.com gives an accurate and powerful explanation for enthusiasm that can hardly be improved. Here’s what they say:
“Enthusiasm is to attitude what breathing is to life.Enthusiasm enables you to apply your gifts more effectively. It’s the burning desire that communicates commitment, determination and spirit. Enthusiasm means putting yourself in motion. It’s an internal spirit that speaks through your actions from your commitment and your belief in what you are doing. It is one of the most empowering and attractive characteristics you can have.”
2. Recognize the power of a positive greeting
Here’s a typical American greeting—dry as a bone but often necessary to get the conversation going:
“How are you?”
“I’m fine. How are you?”
A positive greeting sounds something like this:
“How are you?”
“I’m super-fantastic! How about you?”
It’s amazing how a sense of excitement, joy, and life can be conveyed in this little greeting. And most likely, you will receive a smile in return.
3. Visualize a positive outcome
It’s true: Psychologists have found that success is more likely when you imagine yourself succeeding. Visualizing a horrible failure is discouraging and saps your confidence, only predisposing you for an actual failure. Fantasizing, dreaming, seeing yourself triumphant are not self-centered, arrogant behaviors—they feed the dream and give you hope for the future.
4. Talk positively
Our words reflect the thoughts of our hearts. If you find yourself being judgmental of others and cynical of your situation, you know your attitude needs a change. Stop talking and find something—anything—positive. Get into the habit of always saying something positive about a person or situation, no matter how slight.
5. Laugh
The more humor you have in your life, the less stressful and more motivated you will be. Let’s face it—recovery can be stressful at times. No day will ever go as planned, nerves will get frayed, patience tested, and muscles tense. Laughter is relaxing, refreshing, and often, it’s the only thing that keeps us sane. So laugh often, and laugh loudly. (Remember, joy is contagious). Laugh with others, and most importantly, laugh at yourself.
With the fearful strain that is one night and day, if I did not laugh I should die.” –Abraham Lincoln