It is easy to become negative when surrounded by the challenges in our personal or professional lives. Negativity can become habit forming. If un-noticed and un-addressed, negativity can lead to an unsatisfying life.
Deliberately looking for the good in situations can neutralize negativity and its effects.
Looking for, acknowledging, and focusing on the good in life requires making day-by-day and moment-by-moment decisions. Personally, I find that there are times when it is easier said than done.
However, when I make and commit to a decision to look for and focus on the good in all situations, especially those that are challenging or difficult, I find that life is a little easier.
Here are a few examples; some are from personal experience and some have been shared by others.
- Isn’t it good that I was stuck in a traffic jam, and not involved in the accident that caused the traffic jam?
- Isn’t it good that having a minor illness lead me to the realization that I need to take care of my body and as a result I began an exercise and nutrition program to improve my health?
- Isn’t it good that I lost my job, because I now have a better job in which I am happier and feel more fulfilled?
- Isn’t it good that I had an upsetting conflict with a co-worker that gave me the opportunity to take active steps to resolve the problem leading to the conflict, thereby improving my relationship with this person?
- Isn’t it good that I have had the challenges in my life because they have made me strive to become a person who can rise above and overcome those challenges?
When we switch from a negative state of mind to a more positive one, we may find that the problems are not as big, the risks are not as great, or life is not as difficult as we had perceived.
We also become more aware of the gifts that challenging situations bring to us because we are looking for them and can see them. It is like the difference between night and day. Darkness is a given, but seeing things in the light is a choice.
Affirmation for the Week:
I look for the good in all situations. In situations that are more challenging, I double my efforts and I am rewarded with wisdom, optimism, and hope.
Have an insightful week!
Mary “Motivator” Rau-Foster