“Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them become what they are capable of being.” ~Johann Wolfing von Goethe Good morning! A lot of women have asked me: “How do I stay positive and focused when everything seems to be falling apart or becoming challenging?” Some of these women are battling unsupportive husbands or family members. Other women are struggling with gossip and negativity. Some women are fighting illness; others, depression. Other women are plagued by so many “minor” issues that they have developed a “major” weight on their shoulders. I have been at that place, where choosing old patterns and turning away from progress 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 that are 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 feeling frustrated. Instead of forcing it, take a break to recharge. Whether it is ten 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. 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. Your Turn: Action is one of the greatest remedies for frustration, fear, worry, or sadness. Choose one area in your life that needs improvement right now and make improvement a priority in your life. Make a list of seven action steps you can take this week so that by next week the situation will be different. Today’s Affirmation: I choose how I feel each day-and I choose to be positive. Your Two Cents: Your feedback is what motivates me to create the Good Morning. Share your thoughts and browse my archives by clicking here. And as always, don’t forget to start your day with a heartfelt: “Something great is going to happen today… I can’t wait to see what it is!” And when ending your day ask yourself: “What is one more thing I can do to make today matter?”