Our actions and attitude have so much effect on those around us. What we say and do, and what we don’t say and do, people notice. People pick up on attitudes, and attitudes are contagious.

Have you ever been around someone that complains all the time? Or maybe one of your friends is really grumpy and everything they say is negative or angry. It affects your mood just by being around that person.

On the other hand, think of a time you were around someone that seemed happy and seemed to really enjoy life. They smiled, were friendly to others, easy to talk to and eager to help. There’s always that one person who cares to say hello, greets you with a smile or hug, and asks you how your day is going. Or maybe someone notices your new haircut or outfit and compliments you. All these things give us a little boost. Sometimes we may not even realize it is happening. We often take on the mood or tone of those around us.

I try to be one of those people that spreads happiness. Be the person that others enjoying working with or being around. Be the one who is kind and understanding, even when we have to be around “that” person.

Just don’t be “that“ person.

Even if we’re going through some hard shit in life, and are stressed out, and don’t feel good, everybody around us doesn’t need to know about it. Everyone is going through their own version of stress. We don’t have to be fake cheery, but we also don’t have to be Debbie Downer or Negative Nancy, or just biting people’s heads off.

Each day really is a fresh start, even if yesterday totally sucked. Push the reset button and start over. I try to decide at the start of my day how I want it to go. If you tell yourself it’s going to be a good day, then it probably will be.  If nothing else, I try to be pleasant for the sake of those around me.

I try to take just 5 minutes before getting out of my car and going into work to find my inspiration for the day. I try to find a way to clear my head and think of something positive. Some days, oh boy, it’s a challenge! Here is a list of things that work for me:

1. Look at happy pictures.

It may be pictures of your kids being cute, your spouse, you and your friends, or your pet. It might be funny or inspirational memes on social media. Pictures of cute animals always work.

2. Listen to music.

Pick a song that reminds you of happy times, or is uplifting. It could be a tune that makes you want to dance and move your body. Or a song that you belt out the lyrics to. Sometimes you need a song to pull at the heart strings and let out a good cry before you can feel better. Although, I don’t recommend this one if you’re about to walk into work. Also, empowering songs that make you feel strong or brave work good too.

3. Inspirational quotes.

I take screenshots of inspirational quotes and memes I see on social media. I pull them out and read them when I need a little boost. It never fails me to scroll through those and instantly find a pick me up. It might sound cheesy, but it works!

4. Talk to a friend.

A support system is so important. Friends are good to make you laugh when you need cheering up. If something is bothering you or standing in your way of a positive attitude, pick a trusted friend to talk to and vent what you need so you’re not carrying it around with you all day. You don’t want to end up punching somebody in the face. Let off some steam, then get back to the grind.

5. Five minute meditation.

Take 5 minutes of quiet and think about how you want your day to go and what kind of person you want to be. Envision yourself being happy, smiling, brave, patient or whatever you need inspiration for. Maybe you need just a moment of quiet to collect your thoughts and find calm. 

Not everything works the same for every person. I’m curious, what is your thing you do to start your day with positivity? Leave me a comment.

Peace and Love, Leah