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7 Ways to Turn Your Living Space into a Thriving Space

December 2, 2014 by Power of Positivity

Unless you are an interior decorator or just have a knack for aesthetics, your living space is probably like most others: a TV, some wall décor, a table, maybe even a nice china cabinet. But does your living space contain anything unique that makes it special to you? Specifically, is there anything within your living space that truly resonates with your inner being? This resonance can be one of peace, strength, spirituality… anything that makes your living quarters an extension of you, or what you wish to be.

Creating a living space that truly resonates with who you are or who you aspire to be goes beyond just filling it with furniture. It’s about choosing pieces and design elements that reflect your values, passions, and the mood you wish to cultivate within your home. Whether it’s a cozy reading nook that encourages quiet reflection or a vibrant space that promotes creativity and energy, the right design can elevate your home into a personal sanctuary.

One way to achieve this personalized sanctuary is by working with an interior design studio that understands your unique needs and preferences. They can help curate pieces and color schemes that not only complement your style but also embody the essence of who you are. A thoughtful design process goes beyond simply choosing aesthetically pleasing items; it creates an environment where you feel connected, comfortable, and empowered. The Idea Room, for example, offers a collaborative approach to interior design that allows clients to explore various styles and layouts while staying true to their personal vision. With expert guidance, you can transform your living space into a harmonious reflection of your inner world.

This space should support the way you live and grow, from thoughtful lighting that creates a calming atmosphere to materials that speak to your appreciation for nature or sustainability. When your space is a true reflection of yourself, it becomes not just a place to live, but a place where you can thrive.

For those looking to bring this vision to life, working with experts like Evo Build Group Sydney can transform your ideas into a reality. Evo Build Group specializes in personalized design and renovation projects that turn ordinary living spaces into unique, functional homes. They understand that every client has different needs, from maximizing small spaces to creating open, airy layouts that encourage connection.

With a focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail, these professionals can help you create a space that not only looks beautiful but truly resonates with your inner being.

“We live as ripples of energy in the vast ocean of energy.” – Deepak Chopra

Here are 7 ideas on how you can create a living space that thrives…

1. Feng Shui

Feng means “wind” and Shui means “water,” which makes sense given that both words are associated with good health in Chinese culture. Thus, Feng Shui is based on Taoist doctrine that environments are alive and filled with qi (pronounced “chee”), or energy. Feng Shui aims to balance the energies within the environment, assuring good health and fortune for the inhabitants.

Advanced Feng Shui techniques are beyond the scope of this article, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take some easy first steps to start the process. Here are a few first steps:

– Clear out clutter. Essentially, you are getting rid of everything in your house that you are not fond of.

– Have high quality air and light. Have as much natural light in the home as possible, open windows, and use spectrum lighting.

– Understand the 5 Feng Shui elements. This includes understanding the Bagua, or the energy map of your home, and the utilization of the earth, fire, metal, water, and wood elements to create the desired outcome.

2. Native American “Smudging”

Smudging is an old Native American tradition, used as a practice to cleanse a place, person or object of negative energies. While certainly a spiritual practice, conventional science does concur that the main herb used in smudging – sage – releases negative ions, which research has linked to a more positive mood.

Essentially, smudging involves burning a dried plant and fanning the smoke over your body and home with a sacred intention – health, prosperity, or any other positive intent – while ordering negative energy and spirits to leave with firmness in your voice.

The basic steps of this practice include:

– Crack open a window or door in your home.

– Take a dried bundle of sage and place it in an abalone or clay shell, then light it with a wooden match.

– Gently blow out the flame while allowing the material to smolder.

– Symbolically wash your hands in the smoke, while taking some over your ears, eyes, heart and head. You may also breathe a little in, if desired.

– While starting at the left side of your front door, walk along the left wall around your entire home; praying, while asking the good spirits to stay and the negative spirits to leave.

– When finished, go outside and put the ashes of the sage at the front doorstep, which is thought to protect the entrance.

3. Have a Sacred space

To have a sacred space in your home, be it an entire room or small cornered area, is to have space where you can be silent, reflect, and get centered. With our lives being so busy, it is easy to forget that silence has the healing power of its own. We each deserve to thrive!

Here are some simple steps to set up a sacred space in your home:

– Define what “sacred” means to you. This can mean religion, spirituality, nature, or something else. Whatever it is, try to define it in a couple of words such as uplifting, calm, prayerful, peaceful or spiritual.

– Dedicate a spot in your home. This can be a room or corner of a room, dresser, table, or somewhere else.

– Create an altar. Try to use items that are meaningful to you and in-line with your definition (using the first step). If you are of a certain faith, you may want a symbol of that faith, such as a crucifix or a small Buddha. The nature of the items is not as important as their relative meaning to you.

– Create a ritual. Once you’ve created your sacred area, figure out when and how you want to utilize it. This is a very personal element to your sacred space, so just find the ritual means to you. Bear in mind that this is optional – you may wish to visit this space whenever the mood strikes.

4. Himalayan rock salt

The ratio of positive to negative ions in the air affects both our breathing and mood. Himalayan rock salt naturally emits negative ions, altering this balance to an optimal state. This balancing of ions allows us to breathe more naturally, have more energy, and maintain a positive state of mind.

This rock salt is most popular in Himalayan Salt Lamps, which has been used in Europe for years due to its multitude of positive health benefits and treatment of disorders such as asthma, allergies, high blood pressure, migraine headaches, and rheumatoid arthritis.

These lamps come in multiple sizes, but it is thought that having small, strategically-placed lamps provides a more effective ion balance than one large lamp. Yoga and reiki practitioners also use the lamps because of their tranquil, pleasant glow.

5. Aromatherapy

Considered a holistic, alternative form of medicine, aromatherapy involves the use of extracted, natural oils for psychological and physical wellbeing. The inhalation of these various oils is thought to stimulate brain function and provide whole-body healing through skin absorption.

Essential oils come in many forms, including jasmine, lavender, patchouli, tea tree, rosemary, and others. Depending on the strength and concentration of the oil, it may be combined with a lotion to dilute its strength and then applied to the skin.

In addition to skin application through lotions and creams, there are other practices as well. Examples include aromatherapy baths, massages, vapor inhalation and compression.

6. Art & Décor

Producing a work of art or skillful décor requires both exceptional talent and a lot of time. The final product is often a beautiful piece that is displayed on walls or can be seen on Custom furnishings, played as a song, or framed as a photograph.

Whether it’s a meticulously crafted painting or an intricately designed piece of décor, wall art has the power to transform any space into a reflection of personal taste and artistic inspiration. Adding art to your walls brings warmth and character, creating an environment that feels both welcoming and uniquely yours.

For those who appreciate the elegance of art without commissioning an original piece, art prints can provide an equally captivating experience. These prints offer the beauty and soul of the artist’s vision, reproduced with stunning detail, allowing anyone to adorn their walls with colors and stories that resonate deeply.

The right artwork can shift the energy of a room, from lively and vibrant to serene and contemplative, all while showcasing the creator’s immense dedication and passion.

In addition to being beautiful pieces, they also provide an element of transformational ambiance to the space that it occupies. Great art is in such demand because of its ability to heal and inspire, change and evolve.

Our experiences on this Earth are very unique and personal, as is the art that is produced and appreciated by the people who inhabit it. That being said, it is important that you choose the art form that resonates with you; whether in a photograph, painting, drawing, or other. If you find something that inspires you, consider using the piece to enhance your space.

7. Balanced & Energetic Lighting

Numerous studies, such as the one undertaken by the Ohio State University’s Neuroscience Department, have concluded that different shades of lighting affect your mood. One interesting find: people who are less active at night should avoid bluish lighting, such as that given off by TVs and computer screens in order to not disturb their sleep patterns.

Most interior designers already know the unique effects that lighting has. Because of this, they utilize a mix of soft and hard lighting to create the desired atmosphere of the homeowner. However, you don’t need to be an interior designer to learn how to use lighting effectively.

If you desire to create a more restful ambiance in the dining room, for example, consider using soft (shadow-less) lighting effects. In areas where activity occurs, such as the living room or the kid’s playroom, consider using hard (or direct) light to create an atmosphere of liveliness.

For a great article on lighting your home, check out this Better Homes and Gardens article: http://www.bhg.com/decorating/lessons/basics/how-to-light-any-room/

44 Simple Ways to Boost Your Energy

December 1, 2014 by Kristen Butler

Ever feel like you need to boost your energy during the day?

“The higher your energy level, the more efficient your body. The more efficient your body, the better you feel and the more you will use your talent to produce outstanding results.” – Anthony Robbins

In this fast-paced world, most of us have probably experienced drowsiness throughout the day at our jobs or school. Often, we look for ways to wake ourselves up quickly. Unfortunately, many people choose unnatural, unhealthy ways to re-energize, such as caffeinated drinks, energy drinks, or pills. These methods will do their job and make us feel rejuvenated in a heartbeat, but they also take a toll on our health. A better option would be turning to natural solutions like Bagus Botanicals, known for its plant-based products that provide a gentle, healthy boost of energy without the harmful side effects.

When you introduce yourself to healthy, safe methods of boosting energy, you’ll eventually be able to say no to coffee and other unnatural stimulation.

Here are 44 Ways to Boost Your Energy Naturally

1. Get up and walk around every thirty minutes.

Sitting all day at your desk can cause serious long-term problems, so make sure you take some time to walk around the office and take a break from sitting. Even getting up for five minutes at a time can add up at the end of the day if done in 30-minute intervals.

2. Get out in nature.

What wakes you up in the morning? Most people would say their alarm, but sunlight plays a bigger part in getting you out of bed each morning. Nature provides one of the most natural ways to boost your energy, and most people have access to the fresh outdoors, making it a readily available energy booster.

3. Eat fruit.

Fruit contains fructose, a sugar that goes straight to your cells and converts to glucose that powers every cell in your body. Eating more fruit makes you naturally feel more alive from the abundance of carbohydrates. Also, coffee has been proven much more effective at waking people up than caffeine.

4. Increase your magnesium intake.

If you have a magnesium deficiency, your body will need to work harder to accomplish tasks, and your oxygen levels will decrease. To ensure you maintain an optimal magnesium intake, eat nuts, spinach, or beans. If you keep your magnesium levels high, you will feel more vibrant, and your body won’t need to work as hard to get you through each day.

5. Take a nap.

While American culture doesn’t emphasize naps, other countries, such as Spain, take siestas as part of their daily routine. A study found that people who took naps each day had better overall health and increased their efficiency in work. Naps can also rejuvenate you and give you a second wind when you feel tired or unable to concentrate.

6. Never skip breakfast.

Some researchers tout breakfast as the most important meal of the day, giving people the energy to start their day on the right note. Even if you run behind schedule some mornings, try to blend a quick smoothie to drink on your way to work or while you sit at your desk. Eating a breakfast full of fresh, whole fruits will energize you for your entire day and eliminate that mid-day drowsy feeling later on.

7. Exercise at least thirty minutes a day, five days a week.

A sedentary lifestyle can cause serious illnesses and usually makes people feel lethargic and unhappy. Try to participate in moderate to vigorous exercise for at least a half hour each day for five days a week to increase your energy levels and mental and physical health.

8. Stay busy.

When people have idle time, they tend to get bored easily and let their minds wander. This can lead to feeling off-task and without purpose, which gives us more time to think. Overthinking can cloud your mind and make you stressed and exhausted. To combat these feelings, keep your mind busy and focused so you can achieve clarity and perform each day to the best of your ability.

9. Get adequate sleep.

Most people need to drink coffee or energy drinks each morning to stay awake (mostly due to insufficient sleep the night before.) If you want to feel energized each day, make sure you give your mind, body, and soul the rest they deserve and aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night.

10. Limit your technology use.

Heavy technology use can reduce your natural circadian rhythm and affect melatonin production, which can cause sleeping disorders and even depression. Using less technology can prove challenging today, especially if your job requires you to use a computer, but try to put your phone away at least an hour before bed each night. You will sleep better and therefore have more energy the next day.

11. Meditate.

One of the most effective ways to wake up naturally, meditation provides many other benefits. Meditation can change our DNA and alter our brain chemistry. If you have been feeling tired lately, try to meditate for at least ten minutes each day. You will feel the benefits just minutes after each session, and it provide your mind with some peace and clarity.

12. Drink plenty of water.

Staying hydrated prevents dehydration, which can lead to feelings of fatigue. Our bodies contain over 60% water, which means we need to replenish it often.

13. Avoid artificial energy boosters like caffeine.

Over time, caffeine can affect your sleep schedule, leaving you feeling drained and less-than-stellar. Drinking caffeinated drinks even six hours before bedtime can drastically compromise sleep quality, so avoiding caffeine whenever possible can lead to more energy and better sleep.

Believe it or not, eating an apple has been said to do the trick as a natural energy booster!

14. Splash cold water on your face.

An age-old practice, splashing water on your face can instantly make you feel more alert and refreshed. Try this when you feel sleepy to boost your energy.

15. Get up and stretch.

If you sit at a desk all day, you can easily feel tired simply by staying sedentary for too long. Loosen your muscles and joints by doing quick stretches or yoga poses. Yoga moves the circulatory system and awakens the nervous system, bringing renewed energy to the body.

16. Have something to look forward to.

Oftentimes, people get stuck in a rut when they live a life void of passion. If you want to feel more energetic, make sure your life excites you and provides you with fulfillment.

17. Hug someone.

Hugs just feel good overall. They act as an energy exchange between people and release feelings of happiness and comfort. Hug people often to increase oxytocin, the feel-good chemical known to facilitate bonding and reduce stress. Hugs will make you feel loved and accepted, naturally making you feel more alive.

18. Call up an old friend.

Talking to someone you have known for years allows you to reminisce, laugh, and share stories with that person. Life-long friends usually know us better than anyone, and talking to them after a long lapse can revitalize you and put a smile on your face.

19. Take Vitamin D.

If you live in an area without a lot of sunshine, take a vitamin daily. It will make you feel happier and refreshed, naturally increasing energy levels.

20. Give to the less fortunate.

Feeling low on energy? Practice giving. It will give you a surge of energy because you bring happiness to people’s lives and feel more fulfilled. One of the best ways to renew energy is giving because the positive energy associated with giving comes back to you tenfold.

21. Keep your space organized.

If you have a desk or room filled with clutter, it makes your stress levels rise, which depletes your energy. Devote some time to cleaning up your space to feel calm and stay focused.

22. Eat power snacks.

Eat a handful of nuts or some fresh fruit throughout the day. This will keep your glucose levels steady, which means your energy will remain more level.

23. Write down your goals.

If you have a plan, you will likely feel excited to work toward accomplishing those goals. This will keep you focused and on-task, and completing goals gives a sense of fulfillment. When you reach your full potential, you realize your true power and activate previously dormant energy.

24. Stay thankful.

A surefire way to increase your energy is by giving thanks for everything and everyone in your life. Practice gratitude, and you will naturally have more to be thankful for.

25. Be loving.

If you have ever held onto hatred or extreme dislike toward someone, you likely have noticed a decrease in your energy and overall happiness. By giving love to all beings, you will have a huge store of natural energy and keep a positive attitude, revitalizing you.

26. Choose positivity.

Of course, this list must include positivity; a positive attitude about life keeps lower-frequency thoughts and feelings at bay, which deplete your energy. No matter what situation you encounter, try to remain positive. You will thank yourself later for the burst of energy you feel.

27. Have a close circle of friends.

Having companions to confide in and share all of life’s joyous moments with can make you feel loved and give you a sense of belonging, making you feel more vibrant.

28. Avoid processed foods.

Chemical-laden, altered foods or “food-like” substances lack their potential for true nutrition and are usually higher in calories. Choose natural, organic foods when possible to reap the benefits and energy that foods like fruits and vegetables from the Earth provide.

29. Implement natural lighting.

Artificial LED and fluorescent lights can interfere with our natural sleep cycle and cause more restless than restful nights. Try to turn off artificial lights and open your blinds to let natural light in. Your body responds best to light from the sun because it contains Vitamin D, which is essential for us to function.

30. Give away things you no longer use.

If you want to de-clutter and help those less fortunate, go through all your old things and decide what you need and can give away. In addition to organizing your space, giving away the non-essentials will renew your energy and make you feel good knowing you contributed to a good cause.

31. Take a new road to and from work.

We thrive on new experiences, so taking a new route to work or school will rejuvenate your spirit and make you feel like you are going to a new place.

32. Share a funny story with co-workers.

It never hurts to share some laughs with your work buddies; it will liven up the workplace a bit. If your workday seems dull and your energy drops, mention something funny that happened to you recently. Your co-workers will appreciate it, too.

33. Avoid negative television programs or movies.

Negative messages in TV shows or movies can give you a negative outlook and damage your mood. Try to fill your life with positive images and thoughts, and avoid the heavy programming in most TV shows and movies promoting fear and violence.

34. Keep a journal.

Every night, write down your thoughts about the day or anything. Giving yourself an outlet for your feelings will help you release anything bottled up, allowing more energy for other things in your life.

35. Start a garden or plant flowers.

Another opportunity to get out in nature, growing your own food or planting pretty flowers, will allow you to connect with the Earth and engage in something positive. Most people love to save money, contribute to a cleaner Earth by growing their own food and feel more fulfilled knowing their meals come from their own backyard.

36. Stand on your head.

If you can, look at the world upside-down for a few minutes. The rush of blood to your head will give you more oxygen and make you feel more alive.

37. Consider adding natural herbs to your diet.

Some herbs, known as adaptogens, can increase your endurance and calm anxiety, keeping your energy levels high. Siberian ginseng is one of the most popular and effective herbs for increasing energy.

38. Watch a funny movie.

Most people love a feel-good movie, and there are plenty to choose from. Put on your favorite comedy if you feel a little down about life. It will remind you to take a step back and not take life so seriously, and restore positive feelings.

39. Visit your family.

If you haven’t seen your family in a while, consider visiting them when you can. As the adage goes, “There’s no place like home.” Family can remind you what’s important in life and give you some support, which could be just what the doctor ordered.

40. Put on some upbeat music.

If you can, listen to some up-tempo music. It will stimulate your brain and give you that mid-day boost of energy you were looking for.

41. Avoid energy vampires.

These people constantly complain or find something wrong with any situation. If you want to keep your energy levels high, try to steer clear of these people. They will take your positive energy while leaving you with their negative energy if you aren’t careful.

42. Exercise before work.

Keeping active each day increases vitality and longevity, but exercising before work takes things to the next level. When you make your body sweat before a long day at work or school, you prepare your mind to endure the challenges of the day and are better able to respond to negativity.

43. Simplify your life.

Most people have fairly complicated lives full of more obligations than they can take on. Consider cutting out events or errands that aren’t necessary, and you will free up your time and life for more things you enjoy.

44. Practice positive affirmations.

When you wake up each day, tell yourself something you love about yourself and your life, and remind yourself what a beautiful Universe we live in. Say something like, “I’m amazing and can accomplish whatever I want.” This will empower you to live your best life and give you a quick energy boost before you start your day.

Final Thoughts of Finding Natural Methods to Boost Your Energy

Add to the list! In what ways do you boost your energy naturally? Leave a comment below! 🙂 🙂 🙂

6 Behaviors that Push People Away (And How to Reverse Them)

December 1, 2014 by Power of Positivity

We all manifest one or more behaviors that push people away at least once, if not more. It’s human nature and nothing anyone has to be ashamed about. The mere recognition that you’ve possessed one or more of these traits is a good step towards eliminating them from your life and allowing positivity to enter.

Most of the time, people may not realize they’re pushing others away. There are several reasons for that, and this article will focus on what they are and how to reverse them.

6 Behaviors That Push People Away (and How to Reverse Them)

1. Selfishness

Undoubtedly, the world could use more considerate and thoughtful people. A small gesture of selflessness can go a long way in keeping the people you care about the most in your life. Humans, by nature, are intuitive creatures and can sense if you are doing something with selfish intent. Just because people may not always act on that intuition doesn’t make taking advantage of them okay.

To live a happy life, you must learn how to live and thrive with others, which requires giving away part of yourself without seeking anything in return. Ironically, when you give of yourself without expecting, you are returned that back and more. So if you need a blessing, switch your focus and be a blessing.

2. Conceitedness

The display of conceited behavior will surely push people away in any social situation. Nobody likes story after story of self-edification consistently communicated via an over-inflated ego. Talking about yourself is great when it’s light and authentic. It’s easy to tell the difference.

Despite what mainstream media may portray, there isn’t a single person in the whole world who is the center of everyone’s entire Universe.

It is always a good idea to let other people into the spotlight and consider the implications of your decisions and actions towards them to foster a healthy relationship. Pop any self-inflated bubble you may be living in and try to communicate and understand the needs and happiness of those around you.

3. Self-Righteousness

Sometimes people tend to think highly of themselves and their beliefs… too highly. This can lead to looking down on others and their decisions without even knowing it. In some instances, some people’s egos go so far that they may intentionally want others to feel degraded. But this is a false way to live and gain respect.

To transform this, one must understand that each individual sets a different standard of how they want to live their lives – and that’s okay. We all have unique values, and no one is better than anyone else. Respect that and honor others as you honor yourself.

4. Perfectionism

Humans are not perfect. They are bound to make mistakes, which makes humans special. They are capable of using failures as a learning experience. Expecting perfection from others is unfair when you cannot guarantee everything you do is perfect.

Allow for a little leeway and acknowledge that people will make mistakes. Aiming for perfection is unrealistic, but excellence in all things can provide a life of fulfillment.

5. Chronic Complaining

Happy and successful people do not complain much. Conversely, it seems that chronic complainers always have something negative to say… even when those around them are happy! The bottom line: we all have different circumstances that we are given in this lifetime, but in the end, these circumstances are ours – fair or unfair, wanted or unwanted. Instead, seek solutions to problems instead of complaining, leading nowhere.

6. Cynicism

One of the most burdensome behaviors that people tend to display is cynicism. There is no way of finding out the outcome of anything without giving it a chance first. Remember to give people the benefit of the doubt without jumping to conclusions. Positive thinking can bring new ways of thinking and living to any cynic. It may even completely transform their life, because they will be created when you believe in more possibilities.

“Behavior is the mirror in which everyone shows their image.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

9 Comebacks for Dealing with Rude People

November 30, 2014 by Power of Positivity

How do you respond to rude people?

People can tend to have a love – hate relationship with their families, bosses, friends, and even spouses. They can be the sweetest people with loving intentions one second, and the next, say something so rude and offensive that makes you want to call them every name under the sun and react negatively.

Questions like “When did you gain so much weight?” or “When will you ever get another boyfriend?” or “Why haven’t you found a job yet?” can really hit below the belt and set off your temper, if you allow it. People don’t often think about what they say before they say it, which can lead to disaster if the person they are speaking to (you) becomes offended.

You have a right to defend yourself and speak your mind, but you can come up with a retort that allows you to express yourself while still being cheerful and polite.

Finding the proper comeback to deal with rude people isn’t always easy, especially if that person signs your paychecks. If you have been wondering how to handle your mother-in-law, who can’t seem to keep her mouth shut about your weight, or your boss, who shows no remorse when he gives you extra work to do, consider these comebacks the next time you encounter rudeness.

“When someone is rude, keep a smile on your face. When you stay on the high road and keep your joy, you take away their power.” – Joel Osteen

9 Comebacks for Dealing with Rude People

1. Thank you.

A simple “thank you” speaks volumes when you encounter rudeness. Not only does it show the other person that you didn’t let their words affect you, but it also reflects maturity on your part. You chose not to ignore the person or get angry but met both tactics somewhere in the middle. A “thank you” usually implies that you acknowledge someone’s thoughtfulness and respond to that. However, in this case, your “thank you” will mean that you acknowledge the person’s rudeness and choose not to let it affect you. That will shut the other person down quickly when he or she realizes the comments didn’t phase you.

You choose how to react in any given situation, so choose happiness. It will keep your thoughts and actions positive, and show others that their rude words cannot take your power from you.

2. I appreciate your perspective.

Not only is this an intelligent approach, but it will also show the person that you only wish to communicate in an adult manner and not stoop to their level. Any rude comments reflect the other person’s shaky perception of themselves, so remember that when someone blurts out something tactless. They may want to bring you down, but you don’t have to let them. Show them that you will only continue the conversation with dignity and respect. They may respect you more by reacting in such a considerate way. If this doesn’t happen, shift your focus with this next tip.

3. This conversation is now over.

If you find yourself too angry to respond to someone civilly, end the conversation. You don’t want to cause permanent damage to a relationship by losing your cool, but you also don’t want to disrespect yourself by pretending like the person’s comments or questions are acceptable.

Choose to take the high road and not allow the conversation to continue, and you will be able to keep your dignity while skipping a potential all-out brawl or heated argument.

4. Why do you feel that was necessary, and do you really expect me to answer?

Especially in group settings, this will likely put the other person in check very quickly. Instead of getting the expected irate response out of you, they will meet a calm, cool and collected you, ready to talk things over sensibly and decently. Also, it will allow them to redeem themselves and apologize to you in front of your friends, family or co-workers.

Other people do need to know that you do not tolerate rude or uncalled-for questions and comments and that you will call attention to their uncouth behavior. If they say “yes” to the second part of your question, reply with “Well, it looks like this isn’t your lucky day,” and be done with the conversation.

5. That almost hurt my feelings.

While a little on the sarcastic side, it tells the other person that you choose not to absorb their negativity. It also deals with rude people maturely, and will probably discourage the other person from making any other remarks once they realize you aren’t affected by them.

6. You’re right.

While most people have a hard time saying these two words, it will benefit you to make the other person believe they were in the right in what they said, and will likely cause the conversation to be cut short. What more can they say after this comeback? You admit their rightness and then disengage from the conversation. While you might not get as much satisfaction by using this tactic, it will damper the other person’s enjoyment since they won’t get a rise out of you, which is what they were after in the first place.

7. You always have something negative to say, don’t you?

This takes the attention off of you and back onto them, making them think twice about their choice of conversation topics. Not only will you, rightfully so, draw their focus onto their own words, but also force them to reconsider what they say in the future.

Speaking your mind when a person repeats behavior that offends you is never wrong or uncalled for; if you need to draw attention to someone’s behavior, listen to your gut. The person’s negativity likely affects other people besides you, so making them aware of their toxic behavior will actually benefit you and others in future situations with this person.

8. I love myself, and I love you, too.

This may only apply in certain situations with friends, family, and your spouse. If you say it to your boss, you might get a strange look or get your name removed from the payroll, so use it at your discretion. However, this comeback had to appear on the list because of its effectiveness at shutting down rude people.

Kindness always prevails over negativity; darkness cannot thrive where light is present. When you express to the other person how much you love life and others, their comments become irrelevant and quickly lose power. Their sour mood and bleak outlook on themselves, you, and life will not be a match for your extreme happiness and zest for life. People also aren’t used to such raw emotions from others and will probably be too surprised to respond properly.

9. Laugh

This reaction will catch the offender off-guard and make a rude person feel embarrassed for even commenting in the first place. For instance, laugh if your aunt repeatedly brings up your recent job loss at dinner. It will make the present moment seem a little less serious, and will send a message that you don’t let other people’s rude comments affect your mood or outlook on life.

Final Thoughts on Controlling Your Response to Rude People

Your words can boost the entire energy of a room and promote more positive conversation. You can’t go wrong with that!You choose how to react in any given situation, so choose happiness! Add to the discussion below: How do you positively react to negative, rude people?

11 Toxic Habits that Drain Your Energy

November 29, 2014 by Power of Positivity

Did you know that the energy drink market is a $7 billion per year industry? That’s billion, with a “b”. The market is expected to reach $21 billion by 2017. That’s an absolutely mindboggling number. Monster, Rockstar, and other companies have created a multi-billion dollar revenue stream off of nothing more than a potent mix of water, sugar, caffeine and other legalized stimulants. The energy drink industry is ‘Exhibit A’ of the energy crisis that faces almost all of us.

Energy drink companies have managed to seriously profit off of an underlying, systemic problem within our society: a lack of energy. This lethargy that many of us experience is a by-product of a get-up-and-go society – one in which we must work more to earn less – all while still managing our daily obligations. It is more common nowadays for someone to have two jobs, get less sleep, and have less leisure and family time. In other words, there are too many things to do and not enough time to do them.

While the current economic trends do not show any signs of changing, there are things that we can do to increase, conserve, and expend our energy more wisely. One aspect of this is recognizing and abstaining from toxic, energy-draining habits.

Here are 11 commonly toxic habits that drain your energy:

1. Worrying about the insignificant

We’ve all hear this phrase before: “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” This is simple in theory, but difficult in practice.

Worry and anxiety go together like peas and carrots. Like many of our tendencies, worry is genetically encoded in our DNA. The only difference is, while our ancient ancestors worried about being attacked in the wild, we worry about our jobs, families, health, money, and a multitude of other things.

The answer lies in separating the significant from the insignificant worry. There’e no need to overthink everything. If a legitimate concern needs rectifying, then take action ASAP. On the other hand, realize that the fly buzzing around your keyboard will probably go away, just like any other tiny worry.

2. Allowing the past to rule

You may indeed have experienced some very difficult situations in the past. Some of us have even experienced trauma from these events.

Here’s the thing: you will never fully embrace your present and future without confronting the past. To confront the past, you must first realize the importance of doing so. Underlying emotional and mental complications require the seeking of either personal or professional (therapeutic/medical) help.

Once you’ve realized its importance and perhaps even sought help, you must let go of the past and focus on the future. Realize two things: (1) you are stronger than you think, and (2) you are stronger having gone through the fire. You are now more prepared to encounter whatever challenges may face you going forward.

3. Resisting change and growth

Resisting change and growth can usually be traced to feelings of losing control and excess uncertainty.

There really is no other solution other than to realize your potential, and then focus your efforts on reaching your potential. This includes focusing, day in and day out, on each small task until you reach your goals. Eventually, this task-oriented focus becomes a habit, manifesting itself into achievement and success.

4. Participating in drama and negativity

Drama and negativity can be internal or external; in isolation or in the company of others. Regardless of its orientation, drama and negativity is detrimental to your energy.

If its source is internal, remember that you are not your negative thoughts. Our brains are incredibly complex and, as result, much of our thinking is impulsive in nature. The secret is in understanding this simple fact and allowing these thoughts to simply fade away.

If external, eliminate the source – stop hanging around and allowing negative people into your inner circle. Lend an ear if needed, but don’t participate in the negativity or the drama.

5. Using fear as an excuse

Fear can be the reason that you are not achieving what you want. Rationally confronting fear is one of the best ways to not only manage your energy, but achieve success.

Often, fear is as automatic as negative thinking. When you take conscious control over your thoughts and confront fear, you are in essence making yourself stronger. The answer lies in taking action towards what you want in life…effectively putting fear in the distant background

6. Taking things personally

Being social creatures, we often define ourselves through the relationships that we have. These relationships will vary in effectiveness and intimacy. In other words, there are people that we just “connect” with, and those that we don’t.

A lack of connection with someone does not necessarily mean that they dislike you personally…often times this isn’t the case. There is probably a difference in personality, social interaction, or something else. Don’t take things personally.

7. Remaining on auto-pilot

According to a 2010 study featured in Psychology Today, human’s brains are on “autopilot” nearly half of the time. In other words, our minds are wandering from one thing to the next.

The most significant find from the study is that people are the unhappiest while on autopilot. The takeaway? Being mindful and present in what you do. Being present is a habit; something that is a skill to be learned and one that innately resides in us.

Being mindful is not difficult, remembering to be mindful is. But when we remember to be mindful, we increase our happiness and energy.

8. Holding onto anger and resentment

Anger and resentment generally ties into living in the past. These are negative, “autopilot” emotions and thoughts that can be discarded.

Anger and resentment are extremely counterproductive to your energy and is not worth the mental and physical cost. Let go of anger and resentment, and you free yourself up for some positive energy.

It bears repeating: you are not your negative thoughts (re-read #4, if you must!)

9.Being in negative environments

Continually subjecting yourself to a negative environment; whether it’s work, home, or somewhere else, shouldn’t be acceptable to you. You need to consciously take control of the situation and make a change for the better.

Start with taking some small, proactive steps to get yourself out of the current situation. For example, if work is draining your energy or ambition, spend an hour each day applying for jobs or updating your resume. If your kids are getting into trouble at school, spend some time discussing the importance of education with them. Taking the first step is often the most difficult when making a significant change in your environment, but one that is well worth doing.

10. Not getting proper nutrition

Food is fuel for our brains…literally. Mass-produced, packaged, processed food is saturated with fat, sugar, salt, and preservatives that are harmful to your brain and body.

A WebMD study suggests adding some ‘superfoods’ to your diet to increase your odds of maintaining a healthy brain. Some examples are blueberries, salmon, nuts and seeds, avocado, whole grains, beans, pomegranate juice, and even dark chocolate.

The benefits of these foods range from increased energy to a reduced risk of serious disorders such as dementia and heart disease.

11. Not getting enough sleep

No surprise here…our hectic lives (again) negatively affect a must-have: sleep.

Simply put: sleep is absolutely essential to brain health, energy, and physical health. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) links sleep deficiency to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke.

The NHLBI recommends at minimum seven to eight hours of sleep a day. However, you may need to arrange your schedule, make sure to accommodate for this. Doing so will increase your energy, efficiency, and overall wellbeing.

11 Ways to LIVE (Not Just Exist)

November 28, 2014 by Power of Positivity

“To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.” – Oscar Wilde

In life, we all have the same hierarchical needs: love, food, shelter, water, companionship, and a chance for self-realization and fulfillment. At the end of the day though, most people live on auto-pilot, thinking they have no control, and only experience what they need for basic survival, such as food, water, and shelter.

But what about the dreams, passions, love, and companionship?

Those aspects of life make us actually feel alive. They give us a reason to wake up each morning and live life with intention, direction, and drive to accomplish something bigger than ourselves. If tomorrow turned out to be your last day here on Earth, wouldn’t you want to look back and say you lived life to the fullest? If you want to fill your life with happiness, abundance and freedom now, these tips can help you create that life you have always dreamed of and leave behind the habit of merely existing.

11 Ways to LIVE (Not Just Exist)

1. Conquer Your Fears

“Everything you want is on the other side of fear.” – Jack Canfield

What does this quote mean exactly? Well, nearly everything people want in life involves a certain level of uncertainty and fear. Let’s say you want to travel the world, and you have never left the country before. You have no idea what to expect about other cultures, the laws in other countries, and a whole new way of life.

Perhaps you dream every day of just leaving your life behind and starting a new chapter full of adventure. But you let your fears stop you. You say “I might run out of money. Someone might hurt me. I might not find a place to stay.” You let your mind take over and come up with every possible worst-case scenario.

The best way to get over your fear is to do what you’re most afraid of. You’ll feel more accomplished, fulfilled, happy, peaceful, and ultimately, more alive. Let your fears fuel your passion instead of allowing them to stunt your progress. If more people allowed their hearts rather than minds to serve as their compass, this whole world would explode with passion and people following their dreams. Leave fear behind and embrace the courage within you! All of us have it, and you are no different. You are capable of accomplishing anything you set your mind to if you just believe in the power within.

2. Allow Yourself to Shine

Being your unique self gives you the freedom to move through life in a state of “flow,” not worrying what others think or say about you. Acknowledge your highest self and allow it to flourish! There’s only one of you, and no one possesses all the same amazing qualities as you, so own them. Let your most authentic nature come to life and run free; most people go through life being afraid of who they really are, not allowing their true selves to come to life.

3. Surround Yourself With Uplifting People

In order to really feel alive, you must find others who love living just as much (or more!) In general, you should try to find people on the same mission as you, who value following their dreams and actively work toward fulfilling them every day. Some people believe that you become who you surround yourself with, so keep that in mind as you choose your friends and romantic relationships. When you surround yourself with happy, positive and inspiring people, you choose life. You choose to keep the company of those who allow their true selves to shine, and those who welcome abundance and happiness into their lives. If your current friends or partner make you feel down, uninspired, or discontent with life, consider finding new people to hang around.

You deserve to feel excited about life, and who you surround yourself with can either help or hurt you along your journey. While every relationship can teach us something, you have to discern which relationships are worth keeping from those that are best left in the past. Negative people can hold you back, while positive people can encourage you to become the best version of yourself. Positive energy naturally vibrates at a higher frequency than negative energy, so you naturally will feel more alive by choosing more positive people in your life.

Sever the toxic relationships in your life and spread your wings.

4. Adopt an Attitude of Gratitude

It’s important to acknowledge the abundance present in all our lives and give thanks for what we have every single day. When you practice gratitude each day, instead of just chosen holidays during the year, you’ll find out that you have even more to be thankful for. The Universe responds positively to anyone expressing their thanks and provides even more to be thankful for as a result.

If you have been feeling down lately, try waking up each day and reminding yourself what you love about your life. You may have pets you absolutely adore, loving friends and family, and a job you look forward to going to each day. When you express gratitude to the Universe, it listens. The energy you put out into the world comes back to you, so by reminding yourself of your blessings, you will find yourself being blessed with even more!

5. Follow Your Heart

When you give in to your heart’s deepest desires, you begin to see life in a different way. Everything seems to look more vibrant and alive, reflecting your inner state of being. You might feel pressured to follow a certain path to please your parents, friends, or spouse, but that might not necessarily be the path you want to take. Part of embracing your true self is in listening to your inner voice, not the voice of others telling you how to live your life. Only you can walk your path and make your dreams come true. Make sure you live life based on your ideals rather than everyone else’s. No one can tell you how to live your life except for you, because it is only yours to live.

When you follow your heart, you unlock parts of yourself that have been dormant for years. You can transform your life from complacency to unbelievable exuberance by choosing to listen to the power of your own inner voice.

6. Practice Unconditional Love

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

When we perpetuate a hateful attitude toward others, we invite that same energy onto ourselves. Hate is easy, but doesn’t feel nearly as good as love does. By giving your love to others no matter their actions towards you, you learn how to love without conditions. How others treat you is a reflection of them, not you, just as how you treat others mirrors your own character. Responding to life in a hateful manner makes you more inclined to feel stressed, negative, and ungrateful. It also discourages others from wanting to spend time with you, and blocks positive energy from coming your way.

When you learn to look at everything from a loving perspective, and realize that everyone deserves love despite their words or actions, you say yes to life and no to anything less.

7. Enjoy the Simple Things

”Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it.” – Ferris

When you take note of the little things in life, you actually become more alive. You allow yourself to slow down and embrace the simple beauty behind everything in the Universe, and embrace what is rather than what isn’t. Before work each morning, make it a point to watch the sunrise. Spend some time with your kids before they go off to school. Make the most of each moment and realize what a beautiful universe we live in. If you stop and look around, you will notice that life in itself is a gift, and should not be taken for granted.

8. Give Without Expectations

One of the easiest ways to feel alive comes from giving. When you give clothes to the less fortunate, give presents to family and friends around the holidays, or give your time to volunteer for a good cause, you will start feeling more vibrant because others will benefit from your actions. Every day is a new opportunity to give, and we all have something valuable to offer. And when you give without expecting anything in return, you represent who you are in the purest form, which is Love. Love doesn’t expect or demand to be given back, it just is.

So, embrace who you are and give what you can to help others in need. Giving to others is the best gift you could possibly give to yourself.

9. Embrace Your Inner Child

We all are just kids in adult bodies, after all, so do something your inner child would love. Go to the amusement park, play arcade games, or race go-karts. Part of growing up means taking on adult responsibilities, and we often lose ourselves in them.

Take time to nourish your soul and do something that makes you laugh; you may get behind on your errands or chores for the day, but it’s worth it sometimes to forget the real world for a while and get lost in an endless land of imagination and wonder.

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” – Pablo Picasso

10. Go Somewhere New

Have you always dreamt of going camping, but never had the chance to try it? Pack up your gear and go to your favorite spot in the wilderness for a few hours or days. Variety is the spice of life, as they say, so give your eyes something new to look at on a weekend when you can get away.

Your soul will feel rejuvenated when you put a new experience under your belt, and you will feel more thankful for life by getting out of your usual environment for even a short time.

11. Live in the Now

One of Eckhart Tolle’s most celebrated books, The Power of Now, explains the power of the present moment, and why no other moment matters but this one. The now is all we’ve got, so we might as well make the most of it and realize that we can create the future we envision by simply doing what we want in the present. This life is short, so don’t worry about the problems of the past or the uncertainty of the future. When you find yourself looking too far back or forward, center yourself in what is happening now, and remember that life occurs when you create it. You can’t create in the past or the future – only in the now.

Simply embracing the now will make you feel more peaceful and allow you to let go and experience the joy in every moment.

7 Places People Look for Happiness (That They Shouldn’t)

November 27, 2014 by Power of Positivity

To find true happiness, not much is required. Happiness is found when you let go of expectations, desires, and negative thinking patterns. Happiness is a choice, not an outcome of a situation. Your happiness relies solely on you and your decision in a moment and depends on your outlook on life. Happiness comes when you learn to stay in the now rather than live in the future. Furthermore, happiness is simply a byproduct of accepting the present and allowing life to unfold as it should. Thus, it is not a destination but a journey.

7 Places People Look for Happiness (That They Shouldn’t)

Happy people know all of these things. On the other hand, unhappy people constantly seek things outside themselves for fulfillment.

1. Your Next Vacation

“Instead of wondering when your next vacation is, maybe you should set up a life you don’t need to escape from.” Seth Godin

Most people exude happiness when planning a vacation, and why shouldn’t they? Thinking about traveling to a faraway place, seeing new lands, meeting the locals, and learning about a new culture would excite anybody – but what happens when you get back? The problem with relying on a future trip for happiness is that eventually, the trip is over, and reality sets back in. You have to get back to work, responsibilities, and daily grind. Of course, everyone should attempt to travel at some point in their lives. Traveling allows you to get outside your comfort zone and learn about new places and cultures.

However, happy people realize their contentment shouldn’t be vested solely in vacations. They find happiness in their everyday routines and love their lives, so that vacation is simply a bonus to their already rewarding lives.

2. Material Possessions

“Collect memories, not things.” – Unknown

Retail therapy is commonplace for unhappy people to look for happiness. It’s fast, easily attainable, instantly gratifying, and most importantly, satisfies our ego. Our egos always want more because they survive from acquiring more stuff. However, the temporary high we get from attaining more material items quickly fades, and we are left with an empty feeling, needing more stuff to feel happy again. This endless cycle keeps many people heading to shopping malls to fill a deeper void in their lives, rather than facing the problem head-on. Unhappy people cover up this void with the latest gadgets and clothes, thinking that happiness is found in material gain.

However, happy people know that true gratification is found in lasting pursuits. Such pleasures might be following dreams, building relationships, and contributing to society in a valuable way. Trade a trip to the mall for a trip with your family to your favorite spot in nature; you’ll find more fulfillment in making memories than spending money on things that lose their value in only a few weeks.

3. In Other People

“To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.” – Oscar Wilde

Relationships can bring great happiness – you confide in your significant other, share a life with him or her, bond with your children over bedtime stories and heart-to-heart talks, and look to your friends for advice when you go through a rough patch in life. Relationships are essential to humanity, providing us with companionship, love, and joy. However, depending on others to make you happy means you place all your worth in how much attention others give you.

Being truly happy means developing a healthy relationship with yourself first and sharing that happiness with others. All relationships in life are simply a reflection of your relationship with yourself. Happy people practice self-love and have clear goals and dreams in life. Happy people don’t look for others to complete them. Instead, they view their relationship with others as enhancing their lives. Unhappy people look to others as a source of happiness, but when the person leaves, happiness does too. Find happiness within, and it will never leave.

4. In Your Bank Account

“Money is numbers and numbers never end. If it takes money to be happy, your search for happiness will never end. – Bob Marley

Getting caught up in your money is easy because living can be expensive. However, you won’t find happiness in your wallet, your paycheck, or your bank account. The wealthiest people are usually some of the unhappiest people, which proves that happiness does not increase with more income. More money usually means more to worry about, more taxes to pay, more bank accounts to monitor, more insurance to buy, and generally, more of everything. Having more money usually creates less happiness, ironically. Happy people are thankful for what they have and do not desire anything more. They understand that happiness comes from loving life as is rather than desiring more money. You can’t take money with you when you die, and having more of it now usually means you had to sacrifice precious time to make additional income.

Instead of placing value in having a large bank account, focus on having lots of memories and experiences, and take large doses of laughter each day. Money is fleeting, but memories last forever.

5. The Perfect Life Situation

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass…It’s about learning to dance in the rain.” – Vivian Greene

The pursuit of perfection is never-ending unless you choose to change your idea of flawlessness. If you always seek perfection in life and are never satisfied with how things are, how will you be satisfied with life in the future? What if life never seems perfect in your eyes? The truth is, the idea of perfection is relative.

Perfection exists if you wish it to, meaning that any situation can be perceived as perfect. You may never have the “perfect” job, “perfect” house, or “perfect” family. But you can change your mind about them and find beauty in the imperfect. Unhappy people wait for perfection before they are happy. However, happy people make the best of each situation, finding something positive in the darkest places.

Life naturally has ups and downs; this rollercoaster makes us better able to appreciate the good by experiencing the bad If you want to be happier, embrace your life and learn to look at it as a story constantly unfolding; you don’t have to know the ending to be happy with the middle and beginning.

6. Recognition From Others

“What the superior man seeks is in himself; what the small man seeks is in others.” – Confucius

Relying on others to approve our decisions or give us praise for something we’ve accomplished usually leads to disappointment because people don’t always notice. They might be too busy, forget to reply to your text or email, or even refuse to recognize your accomplishments due to jealousy. Whatever the reason, looking outside yourself for approval often leads to unhappiness because your ego needs others to validate your achievements constantly. It is never satisfied and feeds on continual attention from others.

Learning to pat yourself on the back without relying on others to fuel your confidence will teach you self-reliance and show you that the most reliable source of praise comes from within. If others aren’t around to take note of your latest triumph, you always will be. Unhappy people need others to give them recognition. In contrast, self-actualized, happy people give themselves validation and look at compliments outside themselves as humbling reminders of what they already know.

7. Being Famous

“With fame, you know, you can read about yourself, somebody else’s ideas about you, but what’s important is how you feel about yourself – for survival and living day to day with what comes up.” — Marilyn Monroe

Many people get motivated at the chance of getting famous; they think by gaining fame and attention, that their business will grow, they will be more popular, they will have more money, and life will be much more enjoyable. Celebrities glorify fame, making it seems glamorous and appealing for many reasons. People fight to take pictures with them, rush to stores to buy their latest products, and even want to be them. However, it would be best if you didn’t wait to be famous for being happy. What if fame never comes? You should learn to be happy with the friends and family you have now. They love and support you and want to see you happy.

Unhappy people seek fame to feed their ego, looking at others’ opinions as paths to eternal happiness. However, happy people don’t look at fame as a means to an end, but rather a possible byproduct of living life to the fullest each day and following their hearts.

What other do familiar places unhappy people seek happiness? Add to the discussion below!

4 Ways to Stay Stress Free During the Holidays

November 26, 2014 by Power of Positivity

The holidays are a time to gather with friends and family to enjoy the festivities the season brings. Everyone seems to look forward to the holidays, the time off of school and work, and even coziness with movies by a fire.

However, the holiday season can also be a huge source of stress.

“How we perceive a situation and how we react to it is the basis of our stress. If you focus on the negative in any situation, you can expect high stress levels. However, if you try and see the good in the situation, your stress levels will greatly diminish.” – Catherine Pulsifer

To prepare presents, host parties, bake goodies, have family stay over, and decorate, the stress can easily add up. This can make the holidays seem like more a chore than a celebration. If this sounds like you during the holidays, try to implement these tips into your daily routine this season. You’ll feel less overburdened with stress and can embrace more of the true joy the holiday season brings.

Here are 4 Ways to Stay Stress-Free During the Holidays

1 – Don’t take on more than you can handle.

If your family expects you to host the holiday gatherings this year, but you don’t think you can manage, don’t be afraid to speak up and ask if they might be able to host instead. You might have other obligations, or simply not have time to get the house ready for a big party. There’s nothing wrong with asking someone else in the family to host or getting photo booth hire at https://photomebooth.co.uk/.

You could always offer to bring more snacks or decorations to help them get everything ready for guests. That way, you can still make an important contribution without feeling overwhelmed.

Prioritizing tasks can also help you keep you motivated and control the need for a last-minute rush. Many people pack way too much into their days, often producing mounting stress. If you have to, make a physical list of everything you need to get done. According to a Harvard study, writing down your goals can dramatically improve your chances for success.

Make sure your “To Done” List (as we like to call it) only includes a few key tasks you need to complete each day. It’s much easier to manage stress when you’re reasonable with what you can accomplish within a specific time-frame.

If you can’t get something done that day, move it to the next day, or even ask someone for help -it’s OK!

2 – Do something fun each day.

The holidays don’t have to be all work and no play. Even if you have a lot to do, you can still set aside a little time each day to step away from the chaos of the holidays and nourish your spirit with people and activities that make your heart happy. After a certain time, set an agreement with yourself to stop what you’re doing and take time for you. You’ll get everything done that you need to at the right time.

If you can’t get any alone time, spend time with family and friends doing something that doesn’t involve preparation and effort. Play a board game, watch movies, go eat at your favorite restaurant or something your group can enjoy together.

Leading up to major holidays, you might feel strapped for time and rush to finish cooking and wrapping presents at the last minute.

3 – Keep healthy eating habits.

During the holidays, it can be tempting to indulge in treats more often than you should but think of how you will likely feel after the holidays are over. Make a pact with yourself to keep up your normal eating habits throughout the holidays, with some “cheat meals” sprinkled in here and there. Of course, many folks enjoy it, and eat what they want in the celebration of the holidays. But it’s easy to let a couple of days of treating yourself turn into a few more days, then weeks, then months.

To make sure you stay on track, start a healthy holiday eating challenge with friends, so you can hold each other accountable and also have workout buddies to rely on. The holidays can be a prime time for putting on pounds, and weight gain can often be a trigger for stress in a person’s life.

And if you love desserts, (who doesn’t?) try making them lower-fat by using applesauce instead of oil. This way, you can still enjoy your favorite foods without worrying about how your jeans will fit the next day. Making delicious food that everyone enjoys is an important part of the holiday season. When you feed your body well, you will feel good, leaving less room for stress to creep into your life.

4 – Embrace whatever happens.

Even if you go to the ends of the Earth to make sure something turns out perfectly, it may not always go as planned. Sometimes, you just have to embrace what’s going on in life and make the best of it.

You might put a pie in the oven while you go put the baby down for a nap or take a shower. And before you know it, the pie gets a little too brown on top. Or, you might go out shopping, expecting to find all your gifts in one day, but only come out with a few. Thinking about what could have happened is futile. The moment has already happened. Now you get to create new things in this moment.

There’s always a new day, so don’t stress too much if things don’t go as planned. You may even come to discover that the pie burned because someone else in your family already made the exact same one to bring later, and maybe you didn’t find all your presents because the store you go to the next day will have the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Whatever happens this holiday, embrace it. Love it or learn from it.

Keeping calm during the holidays and choosing not to worry about the little things can make a big difference in how much stress you put yourself under. Worrying about something doesn’t solve the problem; it only creates more to worry about. Remember this the next time you find yourself in a stressful situation, and remember – you control your reality. You only feel stressed if you choose to, so choose positively!

Your Turn–Share How You’ll Keep Stress in Check During the Holiday Season

How do you handle stress during the holidays? We’d love to chat – join in the discussion below!

11 Simple Ways To Stay Motivated When You Need It Most

November 24, 2014 by Power of Positivity

Motivation is a powerful emotion. It enables us to steadily move forward in our lives – towards our dreams, goals, and objectives. Being motivated is the fuel that fills the tank of our ambition and allows us to overcome the inevitable obstacles.

However, remaining motivated is elusive and often hinges on the circumstances of our lives. This being the case, it is important to have a plan in place to re-motivate ourselves when we feel nothing of the sort. None of us want to feel lethargic and without purpose. In having a plan to re-motivate ourselves, we effectively neutralize procrastination and other debilitating emotions that keep us from taking action.

“The will to win, the desire to succeed, the urge to reach your full potential… these are the keys that will unlock the door to personal excellence.” – Confucius

Here are 11 ways that we can stay motivated when we need it most:

1. Break down large tasks

You have probably heard this before: “How do you eat an elephant?”

“One bite at a time…”

While certainly corny, this riddle has some legitimacy. You have big goals, big dreams, and a life that you picture for yourself. In fact, these goals are so big that you become paralyzed by the feelings of unattainability.

You can’t allow yourself to become mentally paralyzed.; not if you are serious about achieving your dreams. You must take small action steps that eventually lead to the realization of these dreams. You have to take one small bite, and then the next, then the next…until you are done with that elephant of a goal.

Break that goal down into small steps and then get after it.

2. Mentally prepare for work

Let’s be honest: work is not fun for most of us. We spend the majority of our day in some cubicle, at some desk, or elsewhere when we’d rather be actually enjoying life. Regardless, work is a necessity that allows you to provide for yourself and your loved ones. To make the most of it, it helps to mentally prepare.

Research shows that intelligence accounts for about 30% of achievement; the rest is mental preparation. When you are mentally prepared, you prepare yourself for success.

Before an athlete steps onto the field of play, they are preparing themselves mentally. Some do this through visualization – rehearsing what they’re going to do to allow them to win. Some meditate, listen to music, read, and even pray. Find the right preparation technique for you that will get those productive, creative juices flowing.

3. Remember your past successes.

The ability to move forward and push the envelope of success is great for advancing society. This ability has allowed us to explore space, map the genome, cure polio, and achieve countless other feats.

Naturally, we feel the need to keep moving forward and achieve more success in our lives. However, we must be able to give ourselves credit when credit is due. Remembering your success boosts self-confidence and motivates you to push on.

Maybe you’ve built a successful business, finished a degree, helped someone in need, or something that makes you proud. The point is this: remember your times of success, as it regenerates motivation and allows you to overcome discouragement.

4. Discover your purpose, and live it!

It’s never too late to put dreams into action, nor is there anything wrong with starting later in life. If you’re still breathing, there’s still time.

Your true purpose does not need to translate into a job or source of income, although it’s certainly a nice benefit. You should, however, know your passions and what makes you feel alive, and then go about doing these things.

When you are unmotivated or unhappy, chances are that you are not living out your passions. Do what you love doing and feel the power of a fulfilling life.

5. Live every moment, every day to the fullest.

Here’s something to contemplate: right now is all that you are guaranteed. You are not assured tomorrow, nor is anything else in your life. Uncomfortable? Maybe, but it is 100% true.

Living your life to the fullest can only be accomplished one way: being present. Whatever task is facing you, positive or negative, wanted or unwanted, should be approached with 100% presence of thought.

Now, no one does this al of the time – we’re human after all. But we should do it as often as possible. Remind yourself to be present and live each moment. Then witness how much more fulfilling and motivating your life is.

6. Get outside of your self-imposed box.

Fears and self-imposed, false limitations make it difficult to attain a successful mindset. Perhaps more disturbing is that these fears and limitations are dream crushers.

Here’s what Michael Jordan, possibly the greatest athlete of all time, says about fears and limitations: “Never say never because limits, like fears, are often just an illusion.”

Recognize these illusions as false and let them go.

7. Stimulate your creativity.

Many methods – good and bad – have been derived to help “stimulate” creativity. Similarly, research has also been varied on how to effectively boost creativity. There are, however, a few commonly-accepted ways to boost creativity.

– Psychological distance – imagining that the creative task is disconnected and distant, rather than personal and accessible. In essence, this involves putting the task outside of your mind’s view and observing the results.

– Daydreaming – Most studies show that both daydreaming and napping help with the creative thinking process. One catch: this works best with projects where much time and effort has already been invested.

– Exercise – Research shows that exercise helps creative thinking due to its ability to get the heart pumping and the endorphins (“feel good” hormones) flowing in your brain.

8. Replace negative thoughts with positive ones.

Perception is not reality and never will be. It’s simple: negative thoughts are usually a result of your brain being on auto-pilot. Cut the self-doubt and press forward with your goals.

Choose to consciously embrace being present in every situation, and you’ll find that more positive thoughts enter your mind throughout the day.

9. Cut back on distractions.

Distractions kill motivation, plain and simple.

As much as technology and social media has benefited our society, it has also created a following of distracted, unmotivated individuals. This following is a by-product of the “always-on”, “always connected” society that we’ve embraced.

Those of us guilty of these distractions have to shoulder much of the blame. Our lack of self-discipline makes it possible for Facebook, Twitter, and the others to make this content (and therefore their companies) viral and always accessible.

The solution for these and other distractions is simple: focus on one task at a time, and only allow distractions when that task is complete. You’ll find that this becomes much, much easier with time and practice!

10. Follow or surround yourself with motivated, successful people.

Jim Rohn, the uber-famous self-help guru and motivational speaker, states: “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”

If your inner circle consists of unmotivated, unambitious people, how can you expect to be motivated? Remember, human beings have an innate tendency to absorb what is around them, including the either positive or negative thoughts and attitudes of others.

If you desire to be motivated and successful, you must surround yourself with people that reciprocate these ambitions.

11. Write down your goals, and how to achieve them.

In 1979, Harvard MBA students participated in a study. These individuals were asked “have you set clear, written goals for your future and made plans to accomplish them?” You must know what you want!

In response, 3% had written goals and plans, 13% had goals but weren’t written down, and 84% had no goals.

Ten years later, the results were these:

-13% of those who had goals but hadn’t written them down were earning twice the amount of the 84% who had no goals.

-The 3% who had written goals were earning ten times the amount as the other 97% combined!

This study is nothing short of incredible, and speaks to the power of writing down goals. Specifically, you should: create a vision (what do you want?), make it measurable (a written list of concrete goals and timeframe), set benchmarks (very small, measurable action steps), and remember to celebrate your successes!

Weekly tips, affirmations, and small actions to feel your best.

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!