Create A Positive Attitude!

Have you ever thought, after accomplishing something extremely tough but satisfying,  Why did I grumble so much, thinking I couldn’t do it? Well, let me ask a question, “Who influences you?”

When you were a child, did you strive for perfection or excellence? God doesn’t expect perfection. In our imperfections God allows us to grow, building confidence through a sense of accomplishment.

“Why didn’t I do this sooner?” is usually the first comment I hear when a person successfully loses weight. All that complaining and believing stinkin’-thinkin’ negativity is time wasted! Whoever said you couldn’t accomplish something?  Unfortunately, whether it’s a parent, employer, acquaintance or sibling, don’t hang around those who express negativity!  It only brings you down.

“Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” (1 Corinthians 15:33)

Have you found that if you’re around a chronic complainer, it changes your attitude too? Me too. Now I’ll smile and say something my mother used to say, “Now say two good things.”

Associate with positive people. Even though I assured patients they could indeed lose weight, some kept whining, “You don’t understand, it’s too hard.” Actually, the harder a challenge, the more satisfaction comes in conquering it! Besides the Holy Spirit, you are the only one who lives in your body. Success depends on your mental determination.

I’ve worked with patients who had hundreds of pounds to lose. Talk about mountains to conquer . . . well even climbing a mountain begins with a single step. Start walking!

The Israelites complained almost every day after fleeing Egypt and meeting struggles along the way.  “Oh to be back in the days of leeks, onions, cucumbers, meat and garlic.”  Complain, complain!  I miss a nice drink of water . . . complain! I wish I could take a hot shower . . . complain! Even Moses couldn’t stay positive as he led through challenging circumstances. He lost his optimism around complainers. He then sought positive influences through quiet time and prayer with his Lord.

I understand legitimate gripes – that’s totally different. Everyone has to vent some time. If one holds stress inside, it will come out in self-destructive ways. But either rectify the situation or let it go before it destroys your godly character.

“or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.”   (Proverbs 22:25) 

Negative speech corrupts good thought patterns no matter how strong one is. Remember Job’s friends who simply sat with him at first as a supporter? Then they opened their mouths. As the saying goes, with friends like those, who needs enemies? Pray for spiritual friends who will build you up, not drag you down! Find happy, optimistic people to be around and it’ll change your outlook.

How does one increase positive development?

• Develop your assets. Don’t know what they are? Ask a trusted friend. Remember you’re unique. You don’t have to like everything about yourself but everyone has good points. Discover and embrace yours!
• Do something nice for others. Remember life isn’t all about you. Sharing happiness while helping others is an uplifting feeling!
• Find ways to learn different activities to attract upbeat friends into your life: photography, art, sports, theater, comedy, or some other club.
• Find new influences. Invite positive friends over for coffee or go shopping.
• Read motivating biographies or self-help books. Highlight inspiring points.
• Reward yourself with small non-food treats, Chart accomplishments after reaching goals. It’ll build confidence.

Happiness is a choice. Choose to glorify God and find the peaceful JOY He gives! Rid yourself of the negative influences, both spirituality, and nutritionally.

“A joyful heart makes a cheerful face, But when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken.” (Proverbs 15:18)

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