Tips on How to Stay Positive in a Down Economy

The glass is either half full or half empty. It's all a matter of perspective. During these trying economic times, it's sometimes hard to keep an optimistic outlook on life, but we must keep moving forward. A local church in Norcross, Georgia called Victory world church is currently doing a series called "Forward" and it's all about keeping a positive outlook on life and moving forward even in the mist of obstacles and struggles.

I recently had some things happen in my professional career that where financially devastating and unexpected , so I had two decisions to make; I could become depressed and discouraged or I could decide to move forward in life. I choose the latter and I am moving forward with purpose and positivity! Today, I want to help you to move forward in your life in the mist of crisis and here are some tips on staying positive:

1. Make a Positive Affirmation: I am sure you have all heard about or read the book, "As a man thinketh". This book does a great job explaining how our thoughts shape our life. Therefore, if you are going through a crisis, come up with a positive statement to recite to yourself. One of my positive affirmations is: I am a lender to many nations and a borrower to none. I make this affirmation almost daily when I am going through a financial crisis because I want to AFFIRM that my current financial situation will not dictate my future. So positive affirmations are KEY in staying positive.

2. Check out a Funny Movie: I have heard it said that laughter is good for the soul. I am not sure who the originator of this quote is but I believe it to be true. I have been in some dark times and suddenly someone would tell me a joke or I would be remind of a funny situation in my life or family and it literally lifted my soul out of the depths of despair. I know some of you are thinking how can I go see a movie in a down economy? Well, have you heard of the red box? The red box rentals allow you to rent any movie for a $1.02 per evening. The .02 is the tax and the actual rental is $1.00, so go check on line to see their new releases are or stop by your neighborhood red box and get a good laugh!

3. Visit a local shelter and Volunteer: I know to some of you the thought of putting someone else's needs before yours seems unthinkable in your current situation. However, let me tell you, I have tried it and it works. When my husband died and I was left without a home to raise a 2 year old I turned my attention from me and my circumstance and focused on at risk youth and before I knew it, my situation seemed minimal compared to what these young people where going through. Plus, I found myself feeling absolutely joyful inside because I saw lives change for the better because of me and there is no amount of money that can pay for that feeling, it is PRICELESS!

4. Smile: Yes, I said smile. You will be surprised what joy comes from a simple smile. Plus, statistics show that you use more muscles in your face to frown that you do to smile, so even in the mist of your crisis, smile and think about some great times you've had in your life and see yourself during that time and know that things will get better. As the mothers of the church use to say...This too shall pass!

I hope these very practical and attainable tips will help you to stay positive in a down economy!