Ten Tips for developing a positive attitude, by Laurel Low and Jillian Woolmer.

1. Remember you have a choice in the way you perceive whatever is going on.
   You have the power to choose whether you think the glass is half full or half empty. Focus on things you are grateful for. Write down five things you are grateful for every day. This helps you find the things you are grateful for more easily.
   

2. Life is always moving on.
   Bad times don't last forever. Say to yourself, "This too will pass."
   

3. Live in the present.
   The past cannot be changed and the future may not come. Bear in mind that this could be your last day on earth because one day it will be! Life is too short not to make the most of every day we are lucky enough to be given. Do what you can do and let go of the rest.
   

4. Pay attention to nature as it is an endless source of joy.
   Take pleasure in the world around you, e.g. listen to the birds singing, bask in the warmth of the sun on your skin, enjoy a cool breeze, notice the perfume and colour of flowers. Feed your spirit with beautiful scenery. Take the time to visit a beautiful garden, or grow one of your own. If you can't make the time, buy some fresh flowers so that you can still enjoy the beauty.
   

5. Don't watch the news or even read the newspaper if the endless supply of bad news items plays on your mind.
   If something happens that you really need to know about someone will tell you.
   

6. Count up the many good things in your life and be grateful rather than spending time concentrating on what you don't have.
   

7. Smile and the whole world smiles with you.
   Smiling makes you feel so much happier, and everyone you meet is pleased to see you as they get a smile.
   

8. Be courteous on the road.
   Even just the gesture of giving way to someone on the road builds a bridge of positive feeling between you.
   

9. Remember that adversity can be an opportunity to learn more about yourself, other people and how to cope with life, however unpleasant the actual lesson may be.
   

10. Be active, get out there and see what the rest of the world is doing.
    Being active feels good and seeing what others are up to can actually inspire you to get more involved too.
    

Thanks to Rachel's Reflections' readers, Laurel Low, and Jillian Woolmer, Curtin Healthy Lifestyle Program Coordinator, for these.

Further Information

Also available the book "Midlife and Happiness"

May you be happy,
Best wishes,
Rachel Green
PO Box 344, Kelmscott, Western Australia 6991.
Phone: +61 8 9390 1188. Fax +61 8 9390 1199
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