8 Steps to Overcome A Fear, According to Psychology

January 26, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Do you need help to overcome a fear? Perhaps you’re terrified to ride in an elevator, are hiding from bees when you go outside, or you can’t stand to be in a vehicle after an accident. Fears are all around you, and according to the National Library of Medicine, about ten percent of Americans deal with these phobias daily.

No one wakes up and wants to be afraid of things they encounter every day, but sadly, it’s the reality of a relatively common problem. Some of the most common fears that therapists treat every day include the following:

•Agoraphobia – The fear of being in a public place.

•Claustrophobia – The fear of being in a confined space.

•Arachnophobia – The fear of spiders.

•Acrophobia – The fear of heights.

When a person encounters the thing that they fear, it sends them into an anxiety attack. They may feel lightheaded, nauseous, impending doom, or feel as if they’re going to pass out. Dealing with a phobia can feel like you’re locked in a jail cell, and someone threw away the key.

What commonly happens is that a person alters their life based on their fears. For instance, the individual suffering from agoraphobia might not go to the grocery store anymore, so they order all their groceries online. The fear of being in a public place may grow to the point where they can’t leave their home at all.

Eight Steps to Overcome a Fear

Thankfully, phobias are treatable by using eight simple steps. No, treating the condition won’t happen overnight, but you can retrain your brain to stop living in fear and get out and start living again.

Step #1: Acknowledgment

If you want to overcome fear, you must realize that the phobia you’re dealing with is irrational. The chances of anything happening to you when you get on that elevator are slim. In many cases, your fear is based on a traumatic experience that you had previously.

For instance, if you were stuck in an elevator during an electrical outage, you may recall all the worst-case scenarios you saw in movies. What if you were stopped at a red light and jamming to tunes when a car sideswiped you out of nowhere? It wouldn’t be unheard of for you to be fearful of being stopped at red lights in the future.

Now what you must acknowledge is that the red light didn’t cause your issue, so sitting in front of it doesn’t mean you’re in danger. You’re transferring the fear to the wrong thing. The fault was in the driver, not the stationary object.

Developing a phobia based on a traumatic event is quite common. It’s a phenomenon that has stumped researchers, and they believe it can be many factors, such as:

•Genetics

•Brain chemistry

•Environmental factors

•Behavioral patterns

The cause is not really of the utmost importance. Rather, a phobia’s definition an irrational fear of a situation, person, or object. To overcome fear, you must acknowledge that it exists, and it is taking over your life.

Step #2: Define Your Triggers

Now that you acknowledge that you have a phobia, it’s time to define your triggers. What if you have a fear of being on the freeway. Does all freeway driving scare you, or is it when you go above 55 miles per hour?

Some people don’t like the expressway because going at faster speeds mean that accidents would be catastrophic. Others don’t like the feeling of being sandwiched in between many cars and knowing that they can’t quickly get out should they have a panic attack. Once you identify what triggers your anxiety, you can work on reducing the stress response to it.

Step #3: Understanding the Progression

Now that you’ve identified what triggers you, you need to understand why your body reacts and how to change the sequence. For instance, a typical phobia sequence plays out like this:

•The phobia is triggered.

•You have a physiological and emotional response.

•You experience an unhealthy and adverse outcome.

Since you know the pattern of these phobias, you can work on changing things. The key is to change your response to a healthy one rather than a negative one. It’s common to feel your anxiety arise and have shortness of breath, dizziness, or nausea.

These are emotional responses due to an increase in the stress hormones in your body. However, you can use adequate coping skills to lessen these responses to overcome a fear.

Step #4: Shift to a More Positive Mindset

Starting with the trigger, a counselor can help you recognize how irrational your fears are and how they can be overcome. For instance, there is nothing dangerous about being in an elevator or on the freeway. It would help if you changed your mindset about these things to create more rational beliefs.

In almost all phobias, fear is not dangerous at all; rather, people are transferring their anxiety to something that is blameless. No wonder experts call anxiety the great pretender as it makes you see and believe things that aren’t true.

Shift to a more positive mindset and push the negative responses aside.

Step #5: Learning to Self-Soothe

Have you ever seen a baby twirl their hair or suck their thumb when they’re upset? They have learned how to self-soothe when they are facing an emotional crisis. While you don’t want to act in the same manner, you can use the same principles to overcome fear.

It would help if you found a way to ground yourself and become centered. The key is to keep your emotions in check so that you don’t spin out of control. No, you may not be able to remove yourself from a stressful situation, but you can soothe the intense reaction you have to it.

The person who is stopped at the red light and fearing an accident can try a counting exercise. Counting is an excellent way to turn your mind from the negative stimuli to focus on something else. You can even make a game of it where you see about how many seconds you must sit at each light.

The brain cannot focus on two things, so when you’re counting, then you’re less likely to think about the accident that you feel is impending.

Step #6: Regulate Your Response

Now, you must deal with the emotional response to your phobia. To overcome a fear, you must process what you are feeling, learn to regulate the response, and find a resolution. It sounds easier than it is, but you can do it.

For instance, when you feel your heart start racing, you should call it out. Say something like, “I feel my heart racing, and I feel a little bit nauseous, but I know this is going to pass soon.” The key is to use self-talk to deescalate the situation.

Speak it out loud so that you can hear yourself say that you’re in no danger. Your words have power behind them, so when you speak things into existence, you call an end to this phobic reaction.

Step #7: Face Your Fear Head On

Now it’s time to challenge yourself. You’ve learned that you have a problem, you know how to handle the increasing emotional response, now it’s time to face your fear head-on. Exposure therapy is a powerful tool because it allows you to feel the negative stimuli, get a grip on your emotional response, and eventually overcome the irrational fear.

A therapist will start you off by slowly exposing you to the phobia. If it’s spiders you fear, then they may put one in the room with you to start. Gradually, they will build up the situation until you might be able to touch the insect. Once you learn to regulate your fears, you can interact with spiders without issue.

Step #8: Setting Yourself Free

Once you can get on that elevator, the expressway, or hold a spider in your hand, then you are setting yourself free from the fear that held you back. To overcome a fear is a process that isn’t going to happen overnight, but you can learn how to manage your irrational angst and stop letting it hold you back.

Final Thoughts on How to Overcome a Fear

The mental health community has categorized phobias into three distinct categories: specific phobias, agoraphobia, and social phobias. Within these three categories are many subcategories. It doesn’t really matter where you fall within these guidelines, as the treatment is all the same.

You must learn to control your emotional response so that you can lessen your anxiety. Yes, your stress levels will rise when you’re faced with your fears, but you can take control of the situation.

Given time and a good therapist, you have the power within you to overcome your fear. It’s all about quieting the noise inside your mind caused by irrational anxiety. What fears are holding you back?

20 Benefits That Come From the Power of Positive Thinking

January 26, 2021 by Power of Positivity

How many times has someone told you that you need to see the glass as half full or look on the bright side of things? These comments are made by those who have a positive outlook on life, and it’s not always easy to share the optimism of others. However, there are many benefits to positive thinking and the beautiful things it can do for your body.

Twenty Benefits of the Power of Positive Thinking

Every human being has more than 60,000 thoughts daily, which indicates how significant the brain’s capacity is. An article published by TLEX Institute references a study done on positive thinking.

The study found that, on average, about 80 percent of those thoughts were negative. It’s easy to see how that could make you in a terrible mood. Here are 20 benefits to increasing your positive thinking.

1. Improve Your Immunity

The medical community is beginning to understand how the mind has a profound effect on the body. When you have a good attitude and think positive thoughts, then you enhance your immunity. A study was conducted at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and they found that positive thoughts lower stress hormones and trigger the reward-related brain circuits.

2. Increases Your Motivation

When you think of good thoughts, then you will feel good. If the reward centers in your brain are activated, then it will give you a boost. If you talk negatively all the time, then you will feel melancholy. Increase your get-up-and-go by using positivity.

3. Improves Overall Health

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to be the picture of health while others struggle? Could it be that their mindset is optimistic? When you learn to stop dwelling on all the negative things and look for the sunshine after the rain, you will feel better. Now, not every medical problem is caused by negative thinking, but it does have an impact.

4. Beauty From Within Shines to the Outside

Have you ever seen someone that was so radiant on the outside that they were beaming? You’ve, no doubt, crossed paths with someone that knows the power of positive thinking. All your thoughts and feelings on the inside will shine to the outside, and others will take notice.

5. Increase Your Perception and Awareness

When you learn to view the world through optimistic lenses, then you have an enhanced perception and awareness of the things around you. Positive people are the ones who take time to stop and admire the beauty of a rose growing in a garden, or they take a walk in the fresh air on a sunshiny day.

6. Improves Your Self-Confidence

The power of positive thinking will help you to improve your self-confidence. How can you look down on yourself or anyone else when you’re focused on all the good attributes you and others have? It’s kind of hard not to have a good view of your life when you believe you’re loved, surrounded by good friends, and feel that you’re worth something.

7. Handle Stress Better

Stress in life is inevitable; however, your perception will dictate how you respond to stressors. The power of positive thinking can give you the strength and wisdom you need to tackle the inevitable challenges that come your way.

8. Helps Facilitate Better Relationships

Did you know it’s easier to make friends when you are optimistic? Who wants to hang around someone who is always negative and acts downtrodden? You want to spend time with people who lift you, make you smile, and enhance your mood.

9. Resilient in a Crisis

When crises come, some fall to pieces and others step up to the plate and take care of business. Someone who is a positive thinker sees the situation for what it is and strives to have a positive outcome regardless of how bad things may look.

10. Lowers Blood Pressure

When you’re cynical and a stressed mess, it only stands to reason that your blood pressure would increase. Your blood pressure is directly affected by your moods and stress. However, when you keep on the sunny side, it can have a calming effect on your heart, BP, and entire body.

11. Keeps You Mentally Healthy

Mental illness is a significant issue in this country. Anxiety and depression are reaching some of the highest numbers ever. Thankfully, when you are focused on the power of positive thinking, it helps you to be your best mentally. Who has time to deal with anxiety, depression, and other mental issues, anyway?

12. Creates a Better First Impression

When you meet someone for the first time, you always get a first impression. Now, that impression can be good or bad, depending on the person’s demeanor. If they’re negative, then it will undoubtedly shine through. However, someone who is positive, smiling, and optimistic always lights up the room. Who do you want in your inner circle?

13. Improves Heart Health

Staying positive is excellent not only for the brain, but it’s good for the heart too. Positivity is linked with your overall heart wellbeing, and it can reduce the threat of heart disease, regardless of several factors, like smoking, getting older, and being overweight.

14. Brings Peace and Fulfillment

A life full of turmoil is no life at all. If you want to find peace and fulfillment in your time here on earth, you will learn to stay positive. It’s incredible how much better your day can be when you walk with an optimistic mindset.

15. Gives You More Opportunities in Life

You have a job interview, and there is one other applicant besides yourself. You walk in with a smile and seem to radiate from the positive nature that surrounds you. The other candidate hardly smiles and is strictly business.

Since this position involves dealing with the public, who do you think they will hire? When you let the power of positive thinking overtake your life, it will open doors for you that you never thought possible.

16. You Will Age Gracefully

It takes fewer muscles to smile than it does to frown, according to Flip Science. Have you ever seen people that never smile? It’s as if their face is permanently frozen in a scowl.

Ten years from now, you will see lines begin to develop around the corners of their mouth and the center of their forehead. These lines form from holding their face in a familiar position for long periods. If you want to age well on the outside and the inside, you must smile and remain positive.

17. Helps You Deal with Rejection

Rejection is a hard thing for the strongest person to endure. Thankfully, when you look at the positive aspects of any rejection, you can use it as a learning curve. There are many lessons to be learned in life, and a positive nature helps you focus on the constructive things you can learn rather than dwelling on the negative.

18. Draws People to You

Have you ever seen a person that people tend to flock to? They are drawn to their charisma, smiling face, and undeniable charm. Many of those people have so many friends because their positive nature is infectious.

There’s nothing better than surrounding yourself with people who lift your spirits and give you the boost you need to keep going.

19. Improves Your Work Performance

One person is sitting at their desk thinking of all the things that are so bad in their life, while the other worker is humming a pleasant tune, smiling, and enjoying the sunshine outside. Now, which person do you think is going to get more done that day? The power of positivity can give you the drive to do more in less time, and it will put a little spring in your step.

20. Increases Your Lifespan

A study was conducted by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health discovered that women who stay optimistic had a reduced rate of premature death. Unlike the negative thinkers, these ladies were less likely to have things like diabetes and hypertension.

Learn the 10 top reasons to embrace positivity in your life.

Final Thoughts on the Power of Positive Thinking

When you’re optimistic, you view the world around you in a different way. Switching from a negative mindset to a positive one enhances your focus. When something terrible happens, you will not ignore the negative aspects, but you focus on the positive ones. You see the chance for growth and opportunity rather than allowing yourself to sulk in your pity.

When the power of positive thinking overtakes your life, there will be more opportunities to come your way. People who walk in optimism have faith and are at peace, rather than those who live in torment as their negativity chokes the life out of them.

The many health benefits of a positive attitude cannot be denied. When you live a positive life, it can reduce medical problems and allow you to have better mental health.

6 Plantar Fasciitis Stretches to Reduce Heel Pain

January 26, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Oh, the places your feet take you in this life. Without them, it would be impossible to live and thrive as you do. However, when heel pain sets in, you need plantar fasciitis stretches to keep you going.

Do you deal with chronic heel pain? According to American Family Physician or AAFP, about 10 percent of the American population suffers from this common ailment. It’s often observed in people who are on their feet a great deal, such as nurses and doctors.

Putting any pressure on the tendons in your feet can cause them to become inflamed and sore. If you like to walk barefoot, walk on your tiptoes, or go up and down stairs without shoes on, then you are at an increased risk of developing this medical issue. Additionally, those that are new to exercise and are starting any workouts may be more susceptible.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

When it comes to the various types of heel pain, plantar fasciitis is among the most common. According to the Mayo Clinic, inside your foot is a thick band of tissue that starts at the bottom and runs to your toe, and it’s called the plantar fascia.

You must wear the proper shoes to provide the support your heels need, especially when you’re on your feet a lot.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Those who have issues with this problem often feel the most significant pain upon arising in the morning. Those first few steps might be uncomfortable as this band has pressure on it.

As the day wears on, you will feel the pain intensify the more you are on your feet. If you sit for an extended period and then get up and try to walk, you will feel intense pain. Oddly enough, people report that they feel better after activity rather than being sedentary.

Causes and Risk Factors

This condition is prevalent among people who jog or run frequently. Additionally, when you have more weight on your body than you should, it also affects this band’s tension. Here are some other situations that make you at a higher risk of this issue:

•Being female

•Age between 45-60

•You have high arches

•You have flat feet

•Your heel cords or Achilles’ tendons are too tight

• You’ve got an unusual gait or foot position

•You wear high-heeled shoes

•You wear shoes with soles that are too thin

•Standing for extended periods at your job

•You wear shoes that don’t provide sufficient support

Diagnosing Heel Pain

When you go to your doctor with a complaint of heel pain, they usually know just by your symptoms the issue. However, they will usually do x-rays and a physical examination to ensure that their hunch is correct. It’s also essential to make sure nothing is broken so that the pain isn’t coming from something like a hairline fracture.

If you have any risk factors, you may try some plantar fasciitis stretches to see if it alleviates the pain. There are many treatment plans available, and it depends on the severity of your problem as to which method you choose.

Treating Plantar Fasciitis

There are many treatment options out there, but the most common tend to be icing the area to alleviate any inflammation. When that doesn’t work, then here are other options to consider.

•Cortisone Shots – Cortisone shots send steroids into the area to reduce inflammation.

•Arch Supports – Arch supports go into the shoe and help distribute your weight evenly, so there isn’t one area that feels the force of your body habitus more than others.

•NSAIDs – NSAIDs medications can be bought over-the-counter, or you can get them in stronger prescription strength. They are meant to be used for the short term, but they can provide quick relief to get you up and moving.

•Splints – These devices provide support to the calf and foot at night.

•Rest – If an activity aggravates the pain, then you should stop and rest the foot. Sometimes, physical activity makes the pain feel better.

•Supportive Shoes – Having support in this area is essential, so a shoe that has a thicker sole and extra cushioning makes walking and standing more comfortable.

•Physical therapy – Physical therapy is an excellent option for those who don’t want to use any medications. By manipulating the area, you can encourage the body’s ability to heal itself. You don’t need to go to a facility to do therapy, as you can do it yourself using plantar fasciitis stretches at home.

•Surgery – Surgical intervention is only necessary in severe cases when other methods have failed. It’s seen as a last resort and nothing that should be considered lightly. Thankfully, this condition responds to many of the methods above, so surgery is not a common choice.

It can take up to ten months for complete relief, though you might feel a reprieve right away. The best way to tackle this common heel pain issue is through plantar fasciitis stretches done in the comfort of your home.

Six Plantar Fasciitis Stretches That Help

By incorporating some easy-to-do plantar fasciitis stretches into your day, you can say goodbye to the pain. Remember, if the pain worsens and doesn’t improve, you may need to see a doctor for x-rays to ensure it’s not another condition. Here are six easy stretches to try.

1. Arch Roll Ice Massage

You want the most effective stretch to ensure that you get rid of the pain, and the arch roll ice massage is among the best. Plus, it’s straightforward to do. You will need to allow a water bottle to freeze to use it as a massager.

•Start by finding a comfortable chair where you can easily move your feet.

•Place the water bottle or ice ball under the middle section of your foot.

•Roll the bottle back and forth for as long as you can stand the cold temperature.

•Try to roll the bottle for about 3-5 minutes, or longer if you can tolerate it.

•Repeat this 2-3 times each day.

This stretch is so effective because it reduces nerve tension and decreases inflammation. If you need more pressure to heal, you can stand up and put your weight on the bottle.

2. Toe Curls Using a Towel

If you want a simple stretch, then towel curls are the way to go. They help by loosening the muscles, allowing the nerves to relax, and stimulating the joints to lubricate themselves. A towel or any cloth will work for this stretch.

•Take off your shoes, find a comfortable chair to sit in, and put a towel on the floor.

•Place your foot on the towel and ensure that you’re positioned in the middle of the cloth.

•Curl your toes inwards and crumble the towel as you do it. If you’re doing it correctly, you will feel an intense stretching in the heel of your foot.

•Curl your toes and count to one, then release it as this is one repetition.

•Do this stretch 2-3 times each day.

3. Toe Stretches with A Towel

This stretch is best when you first get out of bed in the morning, especially when the pain is at its worst. All you need is a towel and a comfortable spot to sit on the floor.

•Sit on the floor and put your back against the wall.

•Now, extend your leg in front of you, and make sure they’re straight.

•Use a towel and lasso it around the end of the affected foot.

•Using the ends of the towel, gently pull your heel towards your chest.

•If you’re doing this correctly, then you will feel sensations from your heels up to your calf areas.

•Hold the stretch for about one minute, then repeat it a couple of times.

•Try to do these curls at least 4-5 times each day for the best results.

4. Calf Stretch

This stretch is done in the standing position. It’s a great warmup if you’re going to do any running or other exercises as it helps to loosen the leg muscles and reduce nerve pain.

•Stand facing a wall and place your hands on the wall. Make sure you keep your feet about a shoulder’s distance apart.

•Your sore foot will be in the back, and you should slightly bend the front leg.

•Bend the front knee slightly, all while keeping the back leg from moving.

•If you do this correctly, then you should feel the calf muscle stretch.

•Hold this position for about 45 seconds, then switch to the other foot.

•Try to do this about 4-5 times a day for better results.

5. Toe Extensions

This is a good stretch that can be done anywhere. It’s especially great for people who wear high heel shoes. You don’t need any equipment either.

•Find a chair that’s comfortable to sit in.

•Take the foot that has the sore heel and place it on top of your thigh.

•Using your hand to move the toes back and forth.

•If you do this correctly, you should feel a stretching sensation in your heel.

•Take your other hand and massage the ankle area of the affected foot.

•Try to massage the foot for about 20 seconds, and you should do 2-3 sets for one rep. Try to do 2-4 reps each day.

6. Marble Pickups

Like the towel stretches, you want to work those toes and stretch out the plantar fasciitis. All you need is a hand full of marbles for this stretch.

•Place some marbles on the floor and have a towel sitting on the floor next to them.

•Curl your toes and use the toe curl to pick up the marbles one at a time.

•Now, once you pick up a marble, use your toes to put the marbles over on the towel.

•Practice moving the marbles back and forth from the towel to the floor.

•Try to use at least ten marbles for a good stretch.

Final Thoughts on Plantar Fasciitis Stretches

Having heel pain can be unbearable, especially since you need your feet to get around. However, by incorporating some plantar fasciitis stretches into your daily routine, you can ease the symptoms and bring relief.

15 Positive Quotes for a Life of Abundance

January 26, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

Living a life of abundance is a direct result of being positive as these positive quotes for life will detail. If you can change your way of thinking, you can live a fulfilling life with everything you already have.

If you are constantly thinking of what you don’t have, you will never feel like you have enough. There will be a nonstop nagging in your mind that you are missing out, even if it isn’t true. Changing those thoughts into positive thoughts can make a huge difference.

When you feel the negativity creeping in, replace those thoughts with other ones. Consider what you already have in your life that you are grateful for and focus on that, instead. If you can do this, you can live a life of abundance.

Fifteen Positive Quotes for a Life of Abundance

These positive quotes for life will help you see that you already have everything you need. You can live a life of abundance, and it is easier to achieve than you may think. Whenever you find yourself struggling, coming back to these positive quotes for life.

1. “You are a living magnet. What you attract into your life is in harmony with your dominant thoughts.” – Brian Tracy

The things that you receive in life are largely based on the energy you are putting out. If your thoughts are negative, you won’t receive much positivity in return.

On the other hand, if you think positively and of abundance, you will suddenly attract abundance. If you feel like you are lacking in any area of your life, remember this and try changing your thought process. Push out any thoughts that aren’t in line with what you want in life.

2. “Riches are not from abundance of worldly goods, but from a contented mind.” – Unknown

You can have all the material possessions possible and still not feel fulfilled. This is because abundance is a mindset and can only be achieved if you are content with what you already have. If you constantly desire more, you will never feel like you have enough.

3. “True abundance isn’t based on our net worth, it’s based on our self-worth.” – Gabrielle Bernstein

Similar to the quote before, the amount of money or the things you own don’t signify abundance. Instead, the way you feel about yourself and the thoughts that you think are what bring abundance. Make sure to think positive thoughts about yourself and to see how worthy you are.

4. “When you keep doing what you love and open yourself to unseen opportunities, that is when nature aligns itself to bring an abundance of new things for your creation. Do what you love, and love what you do.” – Anand Patwa

Doing the things that you love in life will help you live a life of abundance. Keep an open mind as you go along, and watch for positive things to come your way. When you live this way, you will always feel like you have enough.

This mindset will help you discover new opportunities and reach your goals. As you do this, you will obtain new things that you never expected. Remember this as you go about your day, and stick to doing only what you love.

5. “When you are grateful, fear disappears and abundance appears.” – Tony Robbins

Be grateful for what you have in your life. This includes your family, friends, the roof over your head, and the clothes on your back. When you can practice gratitude for these things, you will find that abundance appears, as Robbins explains.

6. “The abundant life does not come to those who have had a lot of obstacles removed from their path by others. It develops from within and is rooted in strong mental and moral fiber.” – William Mather Lewis

Part of living a fulfilling, abundant life comes from overcoming obstacles alone. You have to figure things out to develop a strong mind and unshakable morals. Don’t wait for others to clear the way for you, but instead get moving to clear it for yourself.

7. “Part of achieving life abundance is to be consistently moving toward your goals.” – Unknown

Don’t stop working toward your goals and dreams. Always keep them in mind and make all of your decisions based on those goals. When you do this, you will find the return to be greater than you could have imagined.

8. “Abundance is a state of mind. It is about looking only at all that you have, feeling grateful for all of it and choosing to not complain about what you don’t have.” – Unknown

Only pay attention to the things you already have as you work toward your goals. What you have is enough, and anything else is simply a bonus. Don’t complain about what you don’t have yet, because that state of mind will not bring abundance.

9. “Abundance comes in many forms, do not limit your abundance by trying to control how it will flow, just know that it will come.” – Shelly Sullivan

You can find abundance in many small blessings in your life. Think of what you are grateful for and understand that it is enough. Then you know that abundance will flow in your life freely.

You also must remember to not try and control how things are flowing. Let them flow naturally, but keep yourself open to discovering new things.

10. “An abundance mentality springs from internal security, not from external rankings, comparisons, opinions, possessions, or associations.” – Stephen Covey

If you are secure with yourself, you will find you are already living a life of abundance. It doesn’t matter how anyone else perceives you. The only thing that matters is what you think of yourself and the life you are living.

11. “Plant seeds of happiness, hope, success, and love; it will all come back to you in abundance. This is the law of nature.” – Steve Maraboli

If you plant these seeds of positivity as Maraboli suggests, you’ll gain plenty in return. Go through your life leaving these seeds everywhere and with everyone. Before you know it, you will have an abundance of happiness, hope, success, and love.

12. “The abundance you desire to experience must first be an experience in your mind.” – Ernest Holmes

Remember, if you can think it, you can accomplish it. Set your mind on what you want, and then think of the experience in your mind.

Consider how you will achieve abundance and what it will take to get there. Think it all through in your mind, and even try to think of what could go wrong. The more you experience it in your mind, the better your chances are of achieving it.

13. “Life in abundance comes only through great love.” – Elbert Hubbard

To achieve a life of abundance, you have to experience great love, as Hubbard explains. This means you have to give love, receive it, and focus on doing the things you love. If your life contains love, it is already abundant.

14. “Abundance in life is achieved only when we tear down walls and fill our lives with light.” – Seth Adam Smith

You have to live life with an open heart and mind. Let your guard down so that all the good in the world can get inside. By constantly having walls up, you are only preventing yourself from living a life of abundance.

15. “The fastest way to bring more wonderful examples of abundance into your personal experience is to take constant notice of the wonderful things that are already there.” – Esther Hicks

When you feel like you are lacking something, change your thoughts. Think about the things you already have and the people that you love. These are the things that will fill your life and make it meaningful.

If you need a visual, make a physical list of all the great parts of your life. You could list small things you are grateful for along with the big things. Don’t leave anything out, and keep adding to your list as you think of wonderful things in your life.

Final Thoughts on Positive Quotes for a Life of Abundance

Living a life of abundance is easier and more achievable than you probably initially thought. These positive quotes for life can help you recognize how blessed you are so that you don’t feel like you lack anything.

Remember these positive quotes for life to help you get through any troubling times or times of negativity. Always remember that you have enough already, but it is up to you to realize it. Look within and figure out what makes you happy and feel fulfilled, and then focus your thoughts on those things.

Live with an open mind and heart, and always look for new opportunities for greatness. As long as you keep your eye on the prize, remember what you are grateful for, and remain open, you will live a life of abundance.

20 Positive Phrases to Teach Your Children

January 25, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

Positivity will make your child feel good about themselves and the world around them. It is important to teach your child to be positive, and one good way to do this is by using positive phrases. Using positive phrases, you will be encouraging positivity, confidence, development, learning, and an overall sense of well-being and self-worth.

Using positive words with your children can make your bond stronger, too. Your children will be more responsible and will be less likely to rebel. Plus, they will be more likely to talk to you about things that are going on in their life.

These positive phrases are useful when you speak them, but they go much farther than that. The words you say to your child stick with them forever, and they will think back on them in times of need. If you use positive words regularly, your child will be more likely to think positively when faced with a challenge.

Positive Phrases to Teach Your Children

Set your child up to be successful even when you aren’t right by their side. Use these positive phrases to teach your children, and your children will know what to do when facing a challenge. They will be able to make the right choices and remain confident as they have fun.

1. “I am proud of you.”

When children know that you are proud of them, they’ll want to do even better. They will work to make you proud and continue with the positive behavior they had been exhibiting.

2. “Think about how you can solve the problem.”

Don’t solve problems for your child. Instead, please encourage them to figure things out for themselves.

When they can figure out another way to do something, they’ll be learning and developing. This will also allow the child to see that they can still do things even when there is a problem.

3. “When you mess up, it is a chance to learn.”

Don’t scold your child when they mess up. Scolding will make them think that there is something wrong with making mistakes.

Instead, let them know that everyone makes mistakes and that mistakes are a learning opportunity. Explain that when someone messes up, it’s a way of figuring out what not to do next time.

4. “Pause and breathe. Take a deep breath.”

When you see your child getting overwhelmed, remind them to pause and take a breath. This will help them refocus and calm down. Teaching them this phrase will help them in many instances that cause overwhelming feelings.

5. “You are loved.”

Children need to know that they are loved. Telling them often will let them know that you love them unconditionally. Plus, children who know they are loved will be more confident.

6. “I love spending time with you.”

If your child knows you like spending time with them, they will behave better. Plus, they will rebel less and open up more. Forming a tighter bond and letting your child know you enjoy their company can make all the difference for them.

7. “Don’t give up.”

Teaching your child to keep trying despite anything that happens will help them get farther in life. They will know that they can do anything if they keep trying and work hard. When they accomplish what they were aiming for, the excitement and empowerment they feel will be life-changing.

8. “You are working hard!”

Make sure to emphasize how important hard work is for success and that working hard is more important than the result. It will teach children to embrace obstacles and use them as learning opportunities.

9. “You are kind and thoughtful.”

By recognizing a child’s good behaviors, they will be more likely to continue that behavior. When you see positive characteristics like this in your child, make sure to acknowledge them. Replace the characteristics in this phrase with ones that apply to your child to help develop those positive qualities.

10. “Thank you for being a helper.”

Your child will help more often if you praise their efforts. Let them know that you appreciate their help, and they’ll want to help you and others all the time.

11. “You can do anything you set your mind to.”

Teach your child that anything is possible. They can reach their dreams and figure things out as long as they set their mind to it.

12. “It is okay to say no. You can’t make everyone happy.”

One of the best phrases to teach your children is that it is okay to say no. They can say no when they don’t feel comfortable or don’t want to do something. Teach them that it is okay if someone isn’t happy about it because it isn’t possible to make everyone happy.

13. “Participating, having fun, and trying your best is more important than winning.”

This phrase teaches your child not to sit out if they aren’t the best at something. It teaches them to get out there and participate even if winning isn’t guaranteed. This positive phrase could lead to many fun memories, lots of confidence, and it will build their skill levels.

14. “I know you are doing your best.”

Children like it when you notice that they are trying their best. Even when they didn’t get something perfect, this phrase will encourage them to keep trying hard. Recognizing their attempt will keep them from giving up and will give them more confidence in the future.

15. “Maybe it is time for a break. You can come back to it.”

Kids can quickly become frustrated when things aren’t going as well as they’d hoped. When they work on something such as building with Legos and can’t get the pieces perfect, they may become upset.

Teach them that when this happens, it might be time for a break. Coming back to it later with a clear head could make all the difference. Doing this teaches a child to self-regulate their emotions.

16. “You are so creative.”

Please encourage your child to tap into their creative side by acknowledging their abilities. This phrase will give them confidence and make them want to be even more creative. When they show you their artwork or creation, use this positive phrase to encourage and inspire them.

17. “It is okay to ask for help.”

Asking for help can be hard for adults, and even more so for children. Teach your children that there is nothing wrong with asking someone for help when they need it. Getting help is a good opportunity for learning and growth, and everyone can do better with a little help.

18. “You are important.”

Children need to know that they are important, valuable, and cherished. Remind them of this as often as you can so that they will know their worth. They will have more confidence and self-respect, and they will be more likely to respect others.

19. “The way you are feeling is normal.”

Don’t shame your child for being angry, sad, frustrated, confused, or any other emotion. Instead, teach them that feeling emotion is normal and okay. From there, teach them positive ways to work through their feelings.

20. “I can see that you have been practicing!”

Noticing when your child has been practicing is a sure way to boost their confidence. Plus, it will show them how much you pay attention to what they do. This acknowledgment will promote more practice and hard work, growth, and learning in your child.

Other Ways to Promote Positivity in Your Children

Using positive phrases isn’t the only way to promote positivity in your children. You can give your child positive attention in other ways, too, including:

smiling at them
making eye contact
using facial expressions that show you care
hugging your child
showing interest in their hobbies
asking them about what they are doing
acknowledging their achievements
paying attention when your child is talking to you
spending quality time with them
comforting your child when they are sad
showing that you are excited to see them
watching them when they are doing something that they enjoy

Final Thoughts on Positive Phrases to Teach Your Children

Teaching children to be positive and develop is easy with these positive phrases to teach your children. When you regularly use positive words with your children, they will develop positive qualities and characteristics, including confidence and a sense of self-worth.

The words you speak to your child will affect them instantly. Plus, they will stick with your child throughout their life. Your words are the ones that come back to them as they face challenges and think of solutions.

Make sure that the words your child is hearing are positive ones by using these positive phrases. Please help your child and set them up for success and happiness by always being positive. Remember these phrases when you speak to your children, and you’ll never run out of positive things to say.

Man Builds Mobile Shelters to Make Life Safer for Unsheltered People

January 22, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

After noticing all the unsheltered people living on France’s streets, a clever engineer designed ‘igloo’ shelters for them. Those without a stable living situation struggle to survive all year, but especially in the colder months. Even with blankets and sleeping bags, many homeless people find it hard to stay warm in the winter. They don’t have the luxury of heaters and warm beds, and in freezing temperatures, homelessness can result in life-threatening situations.

French engineer Geoffroy de Reynal realized the dangers of being unsheltered when he returned to France. His job as a quality manager of wind turbine construction sites had taken him abroad to Montenegro. While there, he noticed the relatively small homeless population, in contrast to France’s. When he returned to his home country, he wanted to help homeless people stay warm.

After doing some brainstorming, he came up with the Iglou, a mobile shelter that resembles igloos. Homeless people can take shelter in during the freezing winter months, a welcome respite from the harsh elements.

De Reynal designed the igloos using polyethylene foam, which retains body heat very well. He also covered the outside in aluminum foil to further insulate the structures and make them fire-resistant. Furthermore, the igloos are waterproof so that anyone inside will stay warm and dry. He says the temperatures inside remain about 60 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than outside.

The lightweight shelter only takes about five seconds to assemble and doesn’t have any loose parts. It also folds easily, making it convenient to move to a new spot. Not to mention, the igloos help increase capacity at homeless shelters. Those sleeping in the portable shelters can still access the facilities inside the centers, even if the beds reach full capacity.

The Iglou might not be a permanent home, but it’s a life-saving idea that protects from the harshest elements.

How the brilliant idea of Iglous for unsheltered people got started

In 2018, De Reynal created prototypes of the igloos using money from his own pocket. After creating a successful product, he decided to launch an online fundraiser to raise money for more igloos. His crowdfunding efforts reached $20,000, exceeding his expectations by a long shot. He then built 20 igloos using his own money as well as funds from the campaign.

He placed ten of them in Bordeaux and ten others in Paris. One couple living in the outskirts of Paris, Océane and Benjamin, received an igloo shelter in the winter of 2018. They both said they fell asleep much faster at night and found it easier to get up in the morning. Their nights improved greatly with the Iglou, and they both feel safer and secure using the shelter.

According to 2012 research by The French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies, around 140,000 homeless people live in France. This is an increase of 50% since 2001. Government officials believe this sharp increase may have resulted from rising rent costs and greater financial strains in general. Also, a growing immigrant population from the Middle East and Africa may explain the rise in homelessness.

Even though the igloos have provided shelter for many homeless people, De Reynal knows they won’t eradicate the problems of unsheltered people. He realizes that emergency services are still vital to address the needs of displaced people. However, he believes his igloos will make life a bit more comfortable for them, giving them warmth on frigid nights.

Laurent Eyzat, president and founder of the organization Actionfroid, decided to buy some of the shelters for her company. Hearing many positive testimonials, she wanted the homeless in her area to benefit from them. Her company also distributes food and clothing for the unsheltered people in the city.

De Reynal’s vision for the future of his company

During the past three winters, homeless people throughout France have reaped the benefits of these mobile shelters. While his invention has proved successful, De Reynal revealed that he had much bigger plans. In addition to producing the igloos on a large scale—perhaps hundreds or thousands—he has been exploring new ways to fund the project. Recently, he came across initiatives similar to เว็บแท่งบอลออนไลน์ fundraising platforms, which inspired him to consider digital campaigns to gather support for the cause. The engineer also wants to improve the shelters, such as adding wheels for better mobility and building larger structures for families.

He says he hopes French authorities will aid him with his newest project. Also, he wants to expand production to include other countries. He mentioned Poland and the U.S. specifically, saying that cities like Chicago could use these shelters. The winters there are brutal, with lots of snow and cold nights, and the homeless have a hard time staying warm.

Unfortunately, homelessness continues to rise globally due to financial difficulties, mental illnesses, and unemployment, to name a few reasons. Displacement due to family conflicts, substance or alcohol abuse, natural disasters, and government housing policies also contribute to the epidemic. It’s estimated that around 2% of the global population, or 150 million people, live on the streets. However, reports estimate that around 20%, or 1.6 billion people, may not have adequate housing.

The solution to this complex problem will require cooperation from many sectors of society, including governments and state officials. While many policies and reforms have attempted to address the homelessness crisis, the population of unsheltered people keeps rising. Possible solutions may include raising the minimum wage, expanding mental health services, and giving stable housing first to the homeless.

Final thoughts: A concerned engineer found an innovative way to keep unsheltered people warm

So far, Geoffroy de Reynal, an engineer from France, has helped hundreds of homeless people stay warm. He created the Iglou, a lightweight mobile shelter to keep the homeless safe from the cold during the winter months. He hopes to expand production to countries such as Poland and the U.S., where homelessness is rampant. De Reynal knows that the igloos provide only a temporary solution, but he says the shelters at least keep people out of extreme weather conditions.

The Iglou is much warmer than a tent. In fact, one man said he had to take his coat off because it was so toasty! Hopefully, many more unsheltered people throughout the world will benefit from these ingenious shelters until we can find better long-term solutions.

Dave Portnoy Raises $39 Million to Keep Small Businesses Open

January 22, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

Dave Portnoy, the founder of media company Barstool Sports, has raised over $40 million for 400 small businesses as of Monday, July 19, 2021. He launched the fundraiser with the 30 Day Fund, a nonprofit that helps communities and small businesses. Using their open-source technology, he created the fundraiser for small businesses affected by the pandemic, calling it “The Barstool Fund.” He contributed $500,000 out of his own pocket to the fund.

So far, almost 200,000 people have donated to help keep businesses afloat while the pandemic rages on. While the government has offered some assistance, it’s not nearly enough to offset the business’s sharp decline. So far, Congress authorized $525 billion for small businesses between last April and August, and $284 billion this time around. Second-time loans are limited to borrowers with 300 or fewer employees and cannot exceed $2 million.

Also, borrowers will have to prove a reduction of 25% in gross receipts during a quarter of 2020 compared with the same quarter in 2019. This time around, the Paycheck Protection Program will focus on borrowers who didn’t receive a loan last year or who still need help. However, for those who can’t get government help, they’ve turned to the public for assistance.

For businesses unable to access government relief, innovative solutions like the Clean Slate Tax proposal offer potential pathways forward. This proposal aims to provide eligible businesses with tax relief, allowing them to recover and reinvest in their operations. By easing financial burdens, such initiatives foster resilience and create opportunities for sustainable growth amidst uncertain economic landscapes.

People like Dave Portnoy have helped hundreds of businesses stay afloat during the pandemic. He only requires the business to submit their story and video submission for consideration. He says he wants to help as many people as he can. Similarly, Antonybatty.com specializes in supporting businesses through challenging times, offering expert insolvency and restructuring advice to help companies navigate financial difficulties.

In the realm of business and finance, the role of a private equity Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) becomes increasingly vital in fostering innovation and driving economic recovery. These visionaries play a crucial role in identifying and nurturing promising startups, providing not only financial support but also invaluable mentorship and guidance.

As the business landscape evolves in response to the pandemic, these leaders have a unique opportunity to leverage their resources and expertise to support the growth and resilience of small businesses. By investing in innovative solutions and empowering entrepreneurs, they can contribute to building a more sustainable and inclusive economy for the future.

Portnoy has been reaching out directly to wealthy entrepreneurs and athletes on social media to ask them for contributions to raise funds. The 30 Day Fund founders also agreed to donate $1 million to the fundraiser if it reached $14 million by midnight on New Year’s Eve. When Portnoy got on Twitter to reveal this news, the fund hit $17 million shortly after.

Business owners’ reactions to receiving help from The Barstool Fund

Portnoy has shared his interactions with business owners when they hear their application has been approved on social media. He says many owners become teary-eyed and can’t believe the news that they will get much-needed help.

One business in Wisconsin called Abbey Bar was among the first six restaurants to receive funds from the fundraiser. Owner Kerry Counard was behind the wheel when he heard the news his restaurant had been selected. He ended up having to pull over because he felt so shocked and overwhelmed by the unexpected financial help. He said his business had really suffered since they moved to take-out only.

Most of their business came from patrons who dined in, and the majority of them were college students. When the local university went virtual, they lost almost all that business. So, The Barstool Fund will help the restaurant stay afloat until the pandemic dies down a bit. Counard says The Abbey has been buying gift cards for frontline workers, such as nurses and teachers, using cash donations from customers. Despite the tragedies around us, many people have come together with acts of kindness such as these.

Connie R. Mama, the owner of Mama Mia 44SW, also got choked up during a phone call with Portnoy about being approved. The restaurant in New York City had experienced a few setbacks in the last few weeks. First, someone broke into the restaurant and stole all the liquor. Then, Connie had to shell out $12,000 for outdoor dining chairs and tables when New York banned indoor dining.

Connie’s mom passed last January, and she promised her that she would keep the business alive. With the challenges she’s faced during the pandemic, she started to doubt if she could keep that promise. However, with the money from Portnoy’s fundraiser, she feels much more hopeful and very grateful to have been chosen.

Portnoy wants to keep sharing stories like hers to keep people encouraged to donate.

In another video Portnoy posted to Twitter, he got on the phone with another restaurant owner, Frank Borelli. He owns Borelli’s in New York City and applied for the generous funding. When he got the news that his restaurant would start receiving donations, he too became teary-eyed. He said it was a struggle all year to keep his doors open.

In April of last year, they had to shut down, but they kept business going with takeout orders. When their doors opened again, they built an outdoor patio to accommodate customers. He had to cut his staff but kept paying them. He planned on closing this year because of a revenue loss, but he can stay in business with the funds.

How you can help small businesses keep their doors open

Many other business owners have been helped as well, and you can find all of them on the Barstool Fund’s main page. There, you can make a tax-deductible donation to support small businesses or buy merchandise from certain businesses. If you’re a small business owner and need help due to the pandemic, you can apply on the website as well.

Also, make sure to support small businesses in your local area when you can. All the mom and pop shops rely on regular customers to stay open, so show them some love if you can!

Image Credit: Barstool Sports, Facebook

Final thoughts: Dave Portnoy’s fundraiser has raised almost $30 million for small businesses

From athletes to entrepreneurs to hard-working everyday people, thousands have contributed to this fundraiser. Almost 200 small businesses have been helped so far, and they probably wouldn’t have made it without this unexpected blessing. Businesses from all over the country have shared their stories. Portnoy then posts them to his social media so people can see firsthand where their donations go to.

Many owners have responded with tears in their eyes because they’re so grateful that people care enough to help them. Even if you can only donate a few dollars, it could make the difference between a business staying open or shutting down. If you know of any business that needs help, make sure to tell us in the comments.

NASA Reveals 2020 Tied for the Warmest Year Ever Recorded

January 22, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

According to recent research by NASA, 2020 tied with 2016 as the warmest year in Earth’s recorded history. Scientists at NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS) in New York studied the global average surface temperature for last year. They found that the temperature had risen 1.84 degrees Fahrenheit above the baseline 1951-1980 mean. 2020 beat out 2016 by only a fraction, so taking into account the margin of error, they tied for the warmest year ever.

“The last seven years have been the warmest seven years on record, typifying the ongoing and dramatic warming trend,” said GISS Director Gavin Schmidt. “Whether one year is a record or not is not really that important — the important things are long-term trends. With these trends, and as the human impact on the climate increases, we have to expect that records will continue to be broken.”

The climate trend

It seems that Earth’s surface temperature will only continue to rise, going by current trends. Since the late 19th century, scientists have observed an average temperature increase of 2 degrees Fahrenheit. Researchers say that tracking these temperature changes helps them understand how humans affect the planet. Human activities, especially greenhouse gas emissions, have caused irreversible changes to our planet and atmosphere.

Specifically, increasing temperatures have caused ice sheets to melt and sea ice to disappear, leading to rising sea levels. Heatwaves have become more frequent and severe, and loss of biodiversity worsens every year. Many animals have gone extinct due to the changing climate, and hurricanes and floods have gotten more extreme.

However, by analyzing long-term climate trends, scientists can predict future conditions and suggest how we can adapt. For example, we can better understand which crops will fare well in a changing environment and manage water sources. Also, with the weather becoming more unpredictable, humans will need to make more extensive preparations.

Data NASA used to rank the record-shattering 2020

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) performed a separate analysis and concluded that 2016 beat 2020 for the warmest year on record. While NOAA scientists used most of the same data in their analysis, they go by a different baseline period (1901-2000) and procedure. Also, NOAA does not estimate temperatures in polar regions without observations like NASA does, which explains most of the scientific calculations.

The temperature analysis contains a small margin of error, like all scientific observations. This is due to fluctuations in weather station locations and temperature measurement methodologies. The GISS temperature analysis (GISTEMP) has an accuracy rate within 0.1 degrees Fahrenheit with a 95 percent confidence level for the recent observation period.

Other factors contributing to global temperature changes

The Earth’s overall warming trend will likely continue; however, many factors come into play when measuring the yearly average temperature. In 2020, for instance, two major events altered the amount of direct sunlight that penetrated to the Earth’s surface.

The Australian bush fires

Massive wildfires scorched 46 million acres of land in Australia during the first half of 2020. Because of this, smoke and other particles rose 18 miles high into the atmosphere, blocking the sun and creating a cooling effect.

Global shutdowns due to the pandemic

On the other hand, the lockdowns throughout 2020 reduced air pollution in many locales, which allowed more sun to hit Earth’s surface. Therefore, this event caused a slight increase in the average surface temperature. While the shutdowns also caused a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, overall CO2 concentrations continue to rise. In other words, small reductions in emissions won’t impact long-term trends much since warming results from cumulative effects in the atmosphere.

El Nino

Most global temperature fluctuations occur because of the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). This naturally occurring cycle of heat transfer between the ocean and atmosphere causes variability in mean temperatures each year. 2020 ended in a negative, or cool, phase of El Nino, but it began during a slightly warm phase. This slightly increased the global average temperature; however, the cooling phase will have more of an effect on 2021 weather patterns.

“The previous record warm year, 2016, received a significant boost from a strong El Nino. The lack of a similar assist from El Nino this year is evidence that the background climate continues to warm due to greenhouse gases,” Schmidt said.

Location

The 2020 GISS values represent average global surface temperatures observed during one year. Of course, the weather will vary throughout the globe due to local weather variations. Therefore, not every location will experience the same amount of warming, even during a record-breaking year. According to data collected by NOAA, parts of the U.S. broke heat records, while others didn’t.

Long-term trends indicate that certain areas of the globe, like the Arctic, have experienced more warming than others. The GISTEMP analysis by NASA shows that Arctic temperatures have risen three times as fast as the rest of the planet over the past three decades. The major factor contributing to this is the loss of sea ice, making the area less reflective. According to Schmidt, the Arctic sea ice minimum has decreased by around 13 percent per decade.

This causes the oceans to absorb more sunlight, resulting in even greater temperature increases. Known as Arctic amplification, this phenomenon leads to more sea ice loss, ice sheet melt, and sea-level rise. Also, it results in more destructive Arctic wildfires as well as permafrost melt.

Final thoughts: 2020 broke records for the warmest year ever, and that trend will likely continue

Due partially to rising greenhouse gas emissions, the Earth’s average surface temperature is increasing. A warming Earth creates a domino effect, leading to rising seas, warming oceans, melting sea ice, and more severe weather. It seems unlikely that the long-term trend will change in our lifetime, as rising temperatures result from cumulative emissions.

However, scientists at NASA believe studying the long-term temperature trends is crucial to humanity’s ability to adapt. By having more information on how temperature changes affect us, we can learn how to weather the storms.

Don’t Be Afraid of Being Unhappy. Be Afraid of Ignoring Habits That Create Happiness

January 21, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Do you practice daily happiness habits? Happiness means different things to each person.

Your version of contentment and joy may be having plenty of family around you, having food to eat, and a good job that pays the bills. To someone else, being happy means that they have the freedom to live out all their dreams with nothing holding them back.

Despite what joy looks like to you, you can live a happier life where you feel satisfied and content. You should know that you might have to tweak a few of your habits to accomplish this task. It’s hard to break patterns once they’ve been ingrained in your head.

For instance, if you get up every day, scroll social media, grab a cup of coffee, and play with the dogs before you shower, then it’s going to be hard to change. Some habits are so embedded into your brain that it would be easier to make a river flow in the opposite direction, but where there is a will, there is always a way.

Did you know that many people in the medical community believe that happiness is circular? When you learn to develop happy habits, you will use what you know to boost your spirits. Additionally, happiness is infectious. When you spread sunshine and delight to others, they can’t help but feel the joy that radiates from you.

Happiness Habits You Should Adopt Today

Calling happiness a habit is an interesting choice of words because it means that you must prioritize it to become rooted in your brain. If you’re tired of feeling downtrodden and sad all the time, then you have the power to control things. No, it’s not going to be easy, but here are a few habits that you can start incorporating now.

1. Focus on Positive Things and Ignore Negative Ones

It’s effortless to get caught up in all the negativity around you. Thankfully, you have the power to focus on the good things more than the bad. Even when you’re faced with impossible circumstances, you can still see the good in the outcome.

One of the best happiness habits you can teach yourself is how to change your mindset so that your focus is more of an optimistic one.

2. Laugh Often

How many times do you laugh in a day? Did you know that many people go day in and day out without a good laugh? Laughter is so healing for the soul. The National Library of Medicine shows that laughter has physical, mental, social, spiritual, and quality-of-life benefits, so it’s no wonder it’s called the best medicine.

3. Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

Nothing will make you more miserable than if you’re constantly comparing yourself to others. Worst of all, don’t compare material possessions. The house you live in or the car you drive is nothing if you have ugliness and hate in your heart.

You get somewhere in life by showing love and kindness to others. All the material possessions you own can be gone in an instant, but when you show compassion to humanity, then it’s a gift that can be passed on.

4. Live Every Day as It Was Your Last

While this may seem like a bit of a morbid thing to put into happiness habits, it has many truths behind it. If you knew today was your last day on earth, what would you do differently?

You still need to go to work and pay the bills and take care of business, but would you call your loved ones or text them before you went to bed? There are many things you would do differently, so try using this as a guideline.

5. Savor Each Moment

Do you speed through your day in a stressed-out tizzy and don’t even remember half of what happened? You need to savor each moment and learn to find redeemable qualities even if you’re at work.

Remember a kind gesture from a coworker or a conversation with your mother that brought back fond memories. Stop wasting your life away and learn to live in the moment.

6. Spread Your Love Around

Don’t let one day pass you by where you don’t take time to show that you love and care for others. Maybe there’s a new neighbor that just moved down the street. Why not bake them some goodies and show how welcoming the community in which they live?

Find little ways every day to make a significant impact. One of the best happiness habits that you can acquire is showing love and giving back to others. It will change your life.

7. Don’t Hoard All Your Money

It’s nice to have a savings account for a rainy day, but if you’re so into saving that you don’t leave any for living and experiencing new things, then it’s overkill. You should have “mad money” set aside.

This is your funds to try new restaurants and do some things to make your life better. All work and no play aren’t good for anyone. So, while savings is wise, don’t squirrel it all away.

8. Fake It till You Make It

There will be a day that you don’t feel like being happy or even talking to anyone. However, it would help if you learned to put on a happy face and fake it till it gets better. It will get better, but sometimes you just got to give yourself a little push. When you smile, you can’t help but feel better no matter how bad the day.

9. Think Realistically

Do you think realistically? Sure, you always want to think optimistically, but you also need to be truthful with yourself too. If your marriage is over, thinking it’s going to last might not be good enough. When you learn to be realistic with yourself, you are better equipped to handle the curve balls life throws at you.

10. Learn to Simplify

One of the best examples of learning to simplify is the tiny house movement. People are ditching their lavish homes to live smaller and simple lives. Material possessions and all those things have no bearing on your purpose on earth. Instead, it’s the experiences you gain that will make you.

You don’t need 25 pairs of jeans, 52 shirts, and 39 pairs of shoes. Start getting rid of clutter in your life. When you live simply, and your whole outlook on life will change.

11. Resolve Conflicts Quickly

Never go to bed angry and try to resolve any conflicts as they arise. When you let disappointments and things fester, then it becomes much more extensive than if you had taken care of it when it occurred. One of the excellent happiness habits to live by every day is to resolve conflicts quickly.

12. Live Your Life with Purpose and Meaning

Do you have a purpose in life, and does your life have meaning? You’re so much more than your job or the family you belong to. You can make a difference and bring about positive things in the world around you.

13. Stop Being Judgmental

Don’t judge others. Remember that the same judgment you hand out will be what comes back to you in the end. Karma has a way of always bringing things full-circle, and you want to make sure that what comes back to you is goodness and mercy.

14. Take Care of Yourself

Never neglect your self-care. How can a teapot fill the cups around it if it’s empty? Take time to pour into yourself by doing things like meditation, yoga and ensuring you’re physically and mentally happy.

15. Make Sure to Connect with Others

Happiness habits are things you should practice each day, and one of those things is that you need to connect with others. How boring your world would be if you sat inside your home on the computer all day long with no social interaction.

Find a way, no matter how busy your day, to connect with other people. You’re a social being and need that interaction.

Final Thoughts on Embracing New Happiness Habits

If you could make one small change in your day that would bring you happiness, would you do it? The fact is that you have the power in your hands to control whether you live a happy or miserable existence. Sure, some things happen to you that you cannot control, but you do have the ability to alter how you look at those matters.

Today can be a new day for you. Starting fresh, you can incorporate a few happiness habits into your life. You don’t need to start doing everything on the list, but you should pick a couple of items and start from there. Another bonus to living positively is it has a helpful impact on your heart.

According to an article in Greater Good Magazine published by the Berkeley Department of Education, scientific studies have proven that when you live with optimism in your life, you can improve your immunity as well as your heart health. So not only is being happy improve your mood and outlook, but it can also improve your overall welling.

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

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Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!