DAY ONE: Practice Optimism
"Being satisfied with what we already have is a magical golden key to being alive in a full, unrestricted and inspired way." --Pema Chodron, author of When Things Fall Apart
There are two sides to every story, including the stories we tell ourselves. When I look in the mirror, I can look at the lines around my eyes and tell myself, "I'm getting old!" Or I can say, "Look at how much laughing I've done." They're both technically true, but the latter is obviously going to make me feel better.
Your assignment: Pay close attention to the things you tell yourself, and make a concerted effort to tell the positive side of the story. Start small: What is the weather like? How does your breakfast taste? Then turn your positive spin to other people. Notice something you love about your partner, your roommate or your child.
The real test will come when you're out in the world. Someone will cut you off in traffic, your least favorite coworker will send an annoying email, the clerk at the grocery store will be surly. Notice your first reaction, then make the effort to find something good to say about the situation. Maybe you can admire your coworker's dedication to doing her job, or appreciate the opportunity an aggressive driver gives you to practice your new way of thinking. I know this exercise can be challenging. It can also be extremely enlightening.
The flip side of today's task is to notice how many times you want to say something negative. Don't chastise yourself -- after all, this week is about accentuating the positive. One of my teachers, Cyndi Lee, says that we can't break a habit we don't know we have. Just noticing is the first part of transformation.
Let us know how you've done at the end of the day. Come share your insights and aggravations on the iFeel Good board.
Comments