Have you noticed that some people weather the storms of life better than others?
It seems that their boat doesn't rock too much even though they're sailing through a tempest.
As someone who has gone through many difficult seasons and circumstances, I know the pain and hurt these storms can cause -- and undoubtedly, EVERYONE faces them. However, the secret lies in HOW you encounter them.
UCLA Coach John Wooden articulated this secret when he said, "Things work out best for those who make the best of how things work out."
The secret boils down to how you react to the circumstances you face.
Another prominent thinker (Charles Swindoll) says this: "Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it."
And if this is true, why not choose the most positive reaction possible?
The benefits of positivity are endless -- and there are ways to grow more positive.
Suppose today you're looking to improve your positivity and fortify yourself against life's storms. In that case, Johns Hopkins recommends these three simple steps you can begin taking today to become more positive.
Take time to smile. Consider what makes you happy and think about it. Watch a funny video. Spend time with someone you love (or do something you love) and just let your face reflect the joy you are feeling. Take a moment to smile.
Reframe what's happening. Instead of taking a "woe is me" approach -- or catastrophizing a situation, reframe what is happening as an opportunity. Call your situation a teachable moment and a character-building opportunity. Remind yourself that this will make you stronger, teach you something about yourself, or allow you to move to the next level in an area you've been stuck. Remember, keeping a positive perspective is critical.
Build resiliency. Growth in resiliency will benefit you when future challenges arrive. You can build resilience by engaging in social activities and resisting isolation, practicing self-care, focusing on one thing at a time, and seeking the lesson to be learned through this circumstance.
I believe in you. You can grow more positive. You can make the best of the situations you face.
What will you choose when the storms of life come?
The choice is up to you.
