Developing a Positive Attitude to Life


by Richard Pettinger - Date: 2007-02-03 - Word Count: 531 Share This!

Is a pint glass half empty or half full? When you look at the moon does its beauty inspire you, or do you see the dark spots? It is tempting to feel that our happiness depends on our external circumstances. However, to a large extent, it is up to how we perceive the world that matters. These are a few suggestions so that we have a more positive view of the world.

Steps for looking on the bright side of life.

1. Don't listen to your mind's negative thoughts. The nature of the human mind is to offer worries, anxieties and fears. However how often do these actually come true? The mind can easily exaggerate problems making them appear more serious than they actually are. Our thoughts are also very powerful and will determine our perception of the world

2. Look for good qualities in people. When dealing with other people, such as friends and families, it is often easy to see their numerous imperfections. If somebody has annoyed or upset you, just try to think of their good qualities. It is by focusing on people's good qualities that we are able to make progress. When we bring people's good attributes to the fore we make these qualities stronger and more powerful. As Sri Chinmoy says:

Only by bringing the positive qualities,
And not even one negative quality,
Of human beings to the fore
Will this world be able to make
Abiding progress.

3. Bad events can lead to good things. Often we wish things to occur in a certain way, when they don't happen as we planned we feel miserable. However no matter what happens we should try to make the best of the situation we are currently in. For example if you are made redundant it may become an opportunity to try new things and a new direction in your career.

4. Don't take yourself too seriously. It is easy to feel bad if your ego is hurt. Nobody like being made a fool of in front of other people. However if you do not give too much attention to your ego and are able to laugh at yourself; you can turn embarrassing moments into opportunities for giving joy to yourself and others.

5. Difficulties lead to Progress. Trials and tribulations give us the opportunity to progress. It would be unwise to look for problems but if we come across difficult situations or/ people we should look at this as an opportunity to overcome difficulties. For example, if we can learn to deal with argumentative people, it will be of immense benefit in our later life.

6. Remember the Benefits of Smiling. Even when are difficulties are seemingly insurmountable there is no harm in smiling at our difficulties. When we smile it releases a chemical, serotonin, which makes us feel better. Also others will respond better to people who are smiling.

7. Happiness spreads. Your state of mind and attitude will undoubtedly effect other people. When you can look on the bright side of life you will definitely inspire others to do the same. This will encourage you to do the right thing, as facing a problem with the right attitude is not just good for you, but your friends and colleagues as well.


Related Tags: life, positive attitude

Richard is a member of the Sri Chinmoy Centre and studies meditation under the guidance of spiritual teacher Sri Chinmoy.

Other articles by Richard on Spirituality

Richard's Blog http://www.richardpettinger.com/blog

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