The Secrets of Positive People

Sunday, January 21, 2007

I love these articles and I want them all in one place so I can read them to be inspired. This blog spot seems a good place.

Positive people tend to have many similar characteristics, such as respecting everyone's contribution to a project and knowing during hard times that things will get better. They have the power to make that change happen, an understanding that their attitudes can directly affect outcomes, and a commitment to increasing positive thoughts and diminishing negative ones. Are you putting effort towards becoming a more positive person?
Avoid complaining when things are turning sour, realize that the negatives and the positives in life will level out, and take responsibility for your life and actions. You are the only person responsible for your attitude-and your life.

  

One Tongue and two ears

Sunday, January 21, 2007

Nature gave us one tongue and two ears so we could hear twice as much as we speak.

- Epictetus, philosopher

I just read this quote and along with it this:
Too often we speak before we think and do not listen nearly as much as would benefit us. Today, examine situations where you might learn something by listening instead of talking. Some people can be challenging to relate to--a nosey mother-in-law, overbearing boss or coworker, or simply your child wanting your attention. Instead of justifying your feelings or explaining your point of view, use effective yet concise words and then wait for a reply. Good leaders are always marked by being good listeners. When a friend needs to talk, resist the urge to give advice right away and just listen. We have an obligation to tame our tongues and give people the courtesy of being an attentive and engaged listener. Wouldn't you want the same respect? Everyone deserves to be heard to the full measure. Give that thoughtfulness to someone this week.

I want to pay attention to people more. Look them in the eye and really listen. Especially to my children and husband. That is the least I can do.

  

Am I a victim of SAD?

Thursday, January 11, 2007

I just read the article about SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder - or something like that?) I live in the Central Valley in California where we get FOG off and on from the end of October through Christmas to January or so. My birthday is on Halloween and I noticed that when I was a teenager I was always depressed on my birthday but couldn't figure out why. Then I read about SAD and realized that it was always FOGGY around my birthday!!! Also I LOVE the sunshine and feel like I could just EAT it. I almost need to be outside even if it is freezing cold. I love houses with lots of windows and have the curtains open all the time. My hubby hates it cuz he likes the dark.

My hubby's family used to drive up to the mountains for weekends when he was younger and it was foggy in the valley. He didn't really know why but he said everyone always seemed to feel better.

Odd isn't it?

  

Positive Influence to Others

Friday, January 05, 2007

Again I like the Healthy Reflections thought and don't want to lose it. So I've copied it and put it here. Since I am at my goal weight I don't need to focus so much on ME but on others:

Spreading goodwill that can return to you

This quote can be read in a few ways, and all of them are worth thinking about. First, complimenting and encouraging others is one of the easiest and most powerful ways to be a positive force in someone's life. As long as you're sincere, repeating that encouragement as often as possible can have effects that far outweigh the effort. Countless people have exceeded their own expectations just because others believed in them. Second, giving positive feedback works even better if done publicly. Take those kind words and repeat them until everyone knows the great things that this person is doing. Third, we've all had kindnesses bestowed on us in word and deed. In return for that favor, it's up to us to repeat that generosity for someone else's benefit. However you read this quote, the point is that there's a kindness out there to be performed. And you're just the person to do it!

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

MEGGIESAUR 1/9/2007 9:57AM

I loved this quote too! I enjoyed reading your blog entries. Thanks for stopping by my page to give me an update regarding your daughter. I'm glad to hear you're having an open dialogue - she has a good head on her shoulders. I gave my parents LOTS of gray hairs, but I think I turned out all right. :) Congrats on maintenance...I'm almost there myself. You look fantastic!!! Did you change your program once you hit goal? Good luck with everything! Meg Report Inappropriate Comment

Who is Standing in My Way?

Tuesday, January 02, 2007

I just loved this "article" that came through my email. I am SO behind on reading stuff from SP. My daughter thinks I should just erase all 300 unread notes but I just can't. Especially when I come across this:

Who is standing in your way?

Imagine someone regularly tying small weights around your ankles as you try to climb a mountain. Doesn't sound fair, does it? But that's exactly what you can do to yourself, a little bit at a time, if you don't watch out. When you think of who and what is standing in the way of your dreams, it's easy to forget your own responsibility. Even the best of us can be guilty of unknowingly hurting our own progress. Procrastination, lateness, being disorganized, pessimism, not being honest with yourself, severe self-criticism, downplaying achievements, focusing only on weaknesses while ignoring strengths, keeping goals a secret, demanding perfection, giving up after a small setback--these are all ways you can make it tough to be (and do) your best. Smart systems, the right attitude, and a promise to keep going no matter what will make a world of difference.

I need to take baby steps each day and stop trying to conquer the whole goal in one setting. I need to set reachable little goals toward the bigger goal. I ask too much of myself and I need to get realistic.

For instance I will read 20 unread emails from SP each day and if I reach that goal HURRAH!