Lisa wrote, “I was just sending an email out to some friends and remembered a saying my mom has always said to me since I was really young and thought I would share it with you. ‘Smile today … one smile can make miles and miles of smiles.’”

Your Turn: Embrace the wisdom of Lisa’s mom today and start a chain of smiles. As you do, think of other readers of this column who are doing the same. With combined effort we can make any day one of the most smile-filled days around.

Your Affirmation: Each day I remember to start a chain of smiles.

Your Affirmation: I live in a garden of happiness.

That’s why the Change Your Life Challenge is 70 days (or steps) versus “5 days to a better life.” We don’t ignore what is around us. We methodically work through the “life clutter” while maintaining a positive attitude because we are “taking control.” A positive attitude shouldn’t be something we “brainwash” ourselves to have. A true positive attitude is born when we take action, take responsibility, and start regaining control of the many areas of our lives.

We can learn a lot by looking at the flipside of this. If our attitudes aren’t positive, then we can assume that we are either:

Some might argue that our outlook relies on external events. In cases of tragedy, this is often true. But in our day-to-day stresses and anxieties, I would disagree. One of my favorite quotes has always been, “Two men look out the same prison bars, one sees mud, the other sees stars.” In this example, the external is the same–but the focus of the two men is different. Here is another example from my life. We had a big ice storm here in Wisconsin. I was excited because I love snow and winter weather. My friend was bummed because she hates driving on ice. The external was the same, the outlook that we shared was different. We control our outlook.

Your Turn: Where in your life have you been pushing to have a good attitude, without taking into account “the facts?” Which of these 5 areas could you improve on today? 1. Not brainwashing yourself into a positive attitude by ignoring core issues 2. Taking action 3. Regaining control 4. Facing the facts or 5. Taking responsibility.

Your Affirmation: I am actively regaining control of every area of my life.

Have you seen the movie (or read the book) The Five People You Meet in Heaven? I strongly suggest reading the book. To me, one of the most fascinating concepts was how we can have a DRAMATIC influence on each other’s lives — and often, we don’t even know it.

Without giving away the “crux” of the story, the main character met five people whom he had a dramatic impact on. Interestingly, he didn’t even know the name of some of the individuals.

A few years ago, I received a call from a young publisher. She had entered into the field and was realizing great success after meeting me at a seminar. Another time, I received a very touching e-mail, spurred  by a simple gesture that I wouldn’t have thought twice about doing. It turned out this gesture had been a lifeline at a very trying time for this person.

Your turn: As you go throughout your day, remember that all the things you DO and all the things you DON’T do have a major impact on those around you. What legacy are you going to create today?

Your affirmation: Today, I recognize each opportunity to act with caring and kindness. I live (and will leave) a legacy of love.

What are you “saying” when you aren’t “speaking”? Pay careful attention, as you might be surprised! When you aren’t acting with positive intention, you leave room for negative interpretation.

Your turn: Pay attention to your non-verbal communication today. Work to increase your positive intention toward others through a smile or encouraging word. A simple thank you can warm the heart.

Your affirmation: I express my appreciation to those around me.

Your affirmation: In clutter, I find simplicity. In discord, I find harmony. In difficulty, I find opportunity.