(Art by Heng Swee Lim)
Ten Steps of Optimism
1). Gratitude. Gratitude for even the smallest things is important along with savoring every moment. It truly prevents us from sweating the small stuff and allows to appreciate the blessings in our lives.
2). Stories. When people are going through tough times, they tend to think that they’re alone. However, when they hear stories of how others have persevered, it gives them hope. And hope is the foundation of optimism.
3). Magnet. “Optimism is a happiness magnet,” -Mary Lou Retton. You want to surround yourself with good, uplifting people. Their happiness and positive attitude is certainly contagious. It brings you up and adds light to your day.
4). Reflection. Look in the mirror and remember that what others do or say is a reflection of their own self, not a reflection of you.
5). Altruism. No matter what is taking place in your life currently, helping others is tantamount to your own happiness and to the happiness of others.
6) Embrace Change. If you accept change and embrace what life offers, it is more likely that you will be successful when you come across the peaks and valleys that we all encounter.
7) Believe in Yourself and the Value You Possess. Every one of us has value, unique value. And no one person is more or less valuable than another person.
8) Service the Engine. Healing not only comes from medical and spiritual professionals, but it also comes from within.
9) Reclaim Your Personal Power. No matter what life holds, you are not alone. There are people who have been through it and together you can surmount the obstacles.
10) Stay Inspired. Inspiration is fuel for the heart, fuel for the mind, and fuel for positive living.
In closing, picking up optimism and passing it on is something that the world can never get enough of. Whether we are experiencing peace or war, recession or prosperity, sunshine or clouds, etc. there can never be enough hugs, enough smiles, enough elation, or enough love to keep us all going. The cost is zero but the rewards are priceless. The key is for us to share our experiences with others because everything we do in life (successes and failures) serves as the basis of our wisdom. And sharing wisdom is a major way to facilitate contagious optimism. It’s the key to evolution and the constant improvement of mankind.
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