I am often accused of always having a positive attitude. I firmly believe that your attitude determines your altitude. One of the keys to long-term success and behavioral change is attitude. Here are 5 strategies I have used to help me maintain a positive attitude.
Photo by Neal Fowler on Flickr.
1. Take responsibility.
Blaming circumstances or others for your attitude is a sure way to a bad attitude—at least one that is at the whim of circumstance. As the saying goes, "It's not what happens to you, it's how you respond."
2. Go on a media diet.
Unplug from news, advertisements, television, social media, etc. I am not saying bury your head in the sand, just find balance and unplug periodically from the 24/7 news cycle.
3. Get enough sleep.
Sleep helps the mind and body recover and recuperate from the demands of every day life.
“Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop.”
4. Control your ANTs (Automatic Negative Thoughts).
The problem with Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTs)—as described by Dr. Aaron T. Beck—is they become self-fulfilling prophecies. The antidote to ANTs is reverse paranoia. Instead of letting the ANTs dominate my mind, I have adopted a reverse paranoia approach. Reverse paranoia is automatically assuming that people and the world are good, and out to help and support me. Over time you have learned to automatically assume the negative—why not learn to automatically assume the positive?
“Adopt a reverse paranoia mindset; assume everyone is good and out to help and support you.”
5. Limit complaining.
Complaining does not solve anything. When was the last time you heard someone say, "I can't wait to listen to someone complain?" Besides, the energy used complaining about a problem could be used to focus on solutions to the problem. I have limited myself to complaining only 45 seconds per day. See if you can do the same.
What suggestions do you have for adjusting one's attitude?