Man holding a sign with the words "Positivity" and "Negativity" with arrows between to highlight the importance of positive outlook on total force fitness.

My grandmother keeps telling me that I focus on the negative too much and need to stop and smell the roses. But how can I change my attitude?

Being optimistic and able to find victories in small daily things are skills that can be learned, but it takes conscious effort. Start training your brain to look for the positive:

  • Focus on what’s possible.
  • Take advantage of opportunities.
  • Develop realistic expectations.
  • Identify solutions within your control.
  • Foster hope for the future.

Just navigating a stressful morning routine without getting into a fight with those around you can be a reason to congratulate yourself. Don’t get mad at your sister for being late to dinner (again); instead, focus on the positive and just show her you appreciate her. These are just a couple examples of opportunities for optimism that ultimately will train your brain to enjoy the positive and let go of the negative.

Published on: May 26, 2017

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