Tell me something good. Think of one good thing.

Stop. Think… Only continue reading once you have that ONE GOOD THING in mind…

When you shift your mindset and think positively … when you can see the silver lining, you are feeling gratitude.

Did you know that gratitude is life-changing? Just one thought can change your perspective. There is even science behind this theory.

What’s really interesting is according to Dr. Alex Korb in his book Upward Spiral, the act of “seeking” the items to be grateful for has as much if not more benefit than the item you are actually grateful for. Dr. Korb states:
“Trying to think of things you are grateful for forces you to focus on the positive aspects of your life. This simple act increases serotonin production in the anterior cingulate cortex.”

The other day, I heard someone say that we can either be like Velcro and have negativity stick to us or be like Teflon and our positivity easily slides right off.

I don’t know if that is always true, but there have been times where I have felt that way. Many years ago, I received a good review at work, and as required, and hopefully useful feedback, I had other things that I could work on.
So, what did I focus on? The constructive criticism. Am I not good enough? Am I not valued or appreciated. My work review NEVER said any of that and yet I hyper focused on the negativity in a Velcro-like way.

I’ve been practicing and stretching my gratitude muscle. I remind myself to focus on the good. Period.

I shut down the negativity and I hold on to something positive like it’s crazy glued to me. Forget Velcro… where it can be ripped of with a quick tug.
THIS GOOD THING is staying with me.

So, even when you are working on your taxes, or receiving constructive feedback regarding your job performance, or even watching a loved one’s health decline — Stop and think of that ONE good thing. Then, hold on tight.

Feel better? You should!

Leanne Rubenstein 
Compassion Cultivator
Compassionate Atlanta