How to Stay Positive in a Negative World

I know that it can be very hard to see positive things around you in the midst of a global recession and turmoil, but if you look around you, there are bound to be great positives. It's all about perception. I am one of those people that sees the glass as half-full. I am not always happy, but I am never hopeless. If you want to be just a bit less discouraged when life gets you down, here are 5 steps that have helped me to change my outlook.

1. Look for at least one positive outcome of even an outright bad situation. An example is if you are losing your job. No, you shouldn't be naive, but don't give up even before you type up your resume. Instead, look at it as an opportunity to enhance your resume and as a chance to do something that you may enjoy even more.

2. Smile. If you make a sincere effort to flash a smile to at least 10 people while you are out, you will feel that smile get more and more real as you start to get some smiles back, which makes you get into a little better of a mood. And hey, you never know, you may have made someone else's day a little better, too.

3. Do one good deed a day. I know that it sounds like some cheesy movie, but if we each did only one nice act every day, we could really change the world. Doing something good always makes me feel great inside, knowing that I did the right thing, which makes me smile more.

4. Pat your pet. Having a pet, in my eyes, can be rewarding because of the unconditional love I receive in return for a little food, water, and attention. Animals don't know about stress over money, relationships, a clean house, etc. They just love you and give you something small to look forward to everyday. Petting a pet, I have heard, can also lower your blood pressure.

5. Play with your children. Just like pets, children don't know the stresses of your everyday life, but they sure can sense it. If you set aside time each day, or at least a few times a week, to spend with your children, you will quickly see the world in a more positive light. Children have a tendency, in their innocence, to be naturally positive. Don't question them, just go with it!

I am a firm believer that if you think negatively, negative things will happen. If you think positive, then what do you think could happen?