Still in the New Year mood? =)

I see some heads nodding.. Good for you! If you are striving to be more optimistic about your life, your work, your family or simply everything, here are some tips!

I read a book recommended by a dear friend titled, “The power of Optimism” written by Allan Loy McGinnis and I must say it is wonderful! Some self help books are typically philosophical and do not take into account of the practical issues of life but for this book, everything shared is useful for anyone anywhere. He shared some ‘secrets’ to be optimistic but those below are my personal TOP 5!

The Optimist’s Secrets

Secret #1
Surround yourself with positive energy.
This works, truly. Sadly though, there are more negative people around rather than positive ones and skeptics exist in all forms so, beware! Nonetheless, find yourself people whom you can trust and believe in you. They can be your family members or dear friends. Better still, surround yourself with people who have the same vision as you so that you can motivate each other constantly.

Secret #2
Be around children a lot.
It helps. Children make you smile and laugh more with their cute and funny antics and their happy selves will rub off you too.

Secret #3
Leave the impossible to God and crack your brains for the possibilities.
Quit worrying! There are many things which are beyond our control and the one thing which we can control is ourselves. So think more on finding practical solutions which will help you in the long run and you’ll see that these steps will save you in the future.

Secret #4
Always be prepared for trouble.
So you are a perfectionist?? Cool it! No matter how prepared we can be, there are always people or events which will turn our lives into a spinning typhoon. Therefore, be ready for trouble. You wont be able to smell it coming but once trouble pays you a visit, remember to be calm for without calm, you will not be able to think well. Then be adaptable to the changes and bring on your ‘back-up’ plan. A winner never says DIE.

Secret #5
Insist on celebrations.
No matter how busy you are, no matter how stressful you are or no matter how negative you are about your life, get on and join in the simple celebrations of life. Indulge in ‘ME-time’ and have outings with your family or friends. A simple coffee session with closed ones is a dear. Don’t coop yourself up. As much as it is not healthy, you will also not be able to share thoughts and opinions with others, which sometimes may be of help.

Labels: new year, optimism, optimistic, secret