Dear Luis,

"Limitations live only in our minds. But if we use our

imaginations, our possibilities become limitless."
Jamie Paolinetti

Over the past week I came into contact with quite a few
people who were facing the same challenge... "How do I stay
positive and focused when everything seems to be falling
apart or challenging?" Some of the people I talked to were
battling with unsupportive husbands/wives or family members. Other
people were struggling with gossip and negativity. Some people
were fighting illness and others depression. Other were
plagued by so many "minor" issues it had become a "major"
weight on their shoulders.

I have been "at that place" where choosing old patterns and
turning away seemed easier than turning toward challenging
life to be the best it can be. Here are some of the tips and
tools I have used to stay positive regardless of what is
going on in my life at the moment.

Let go "of fair": Sometimes when we "get down" it is because

we don't feel things are going "as they should," or that we
are getting the help we deserve. We can easily focus on the
injustice of the situation or what is wrong with people or
the situation around us. Focusing on the external won't help
you internally. Instead, focus on what you can control and
how you can positively influence others.

Remember that a lot can happen in a day: Just because this

moment isn't ideal doesn't mean the next moment can't be.
Instead of focusing on what isn't working, be open to the
idea that something great can happen today.

Count your blessings: When our surroundings or situation

gets us down it is easy to count the many things wrong with
our life. Switch perspectives by counting your blessings.
Like attracts like. Count how many things are wrong with
your life and surely the list will multiply. Count the many
things that are positive in your life and they will multiply
instead.

Take a break: When we are tired (either emotionally or

physically) staying positive can be an uphill battle that
leaves us frustrated. Instead of forcing it, take a break to
recharge. Whether it is 10 minutes or a day, find some space
to relax and nurture yourself. Enjoy lunch or coffee with a
positive friend. If you don't have a positive friend, have
lunch or coffee with a positive book or inspirational audio.

Get a cheerleader: A community of like-minded positive women

can do wonders! Consider joining our e-group for a wonderful
community of positive women to turn to for ideas and
support.

Change your perspective: "Change the way you look at things

and the things you look at change." Although I don't know
who said it, it remains one of my favorite quotes. Sometimes
stepping back from a situation and looking at it through the
perspective of others involved offers valuable new insight.

Smile.... and smile again: Smile at everyone you meet

(especially strangers.) Watch how they smile back at you.
Realize that regardless of what is happening right now, you
still have the ability to start a chain of happiness.

I will survive: (I love that song!) Create a CD of music

that is uplifting to you and listen to it when the weight of
the world is on your shoulders. Recall other situations you
have overcome and realize that you have the power to
overcome whatever you are currently facing.

Make a plan... and move: Action is one of the greatest ways

to conquer fear, worry or sadness. Choose one area that
needs improvement right now and make improvement a priority
in your life. Make a list of 7 action steps you can take
this week so that by next week the situation will be
different.

Find a role model: Take a break and browse biographies

online or at your local bookstore. Almost every notable
person you find in the biography section has overcome
seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Gather strength from the
stories of others.

Help someone else: When we take the focus off of our own
situation and use that energy to reach out and help others,
we experience warmth and reward. Check with a local church
or your community center for a short- or long-term volunteer
idea. If you are unsure about approaching a local volunteer
opportunity, search online for "support the military" and
put together a care package or write a letter than will
brighten someone's day.

Your Turn:
Review the list of ideas shared this week and choose one or
two to implement and create a more positive perspective in
your life.

I'm sure you'll find it extremely useful. =)