Living in a Positive State of Mind

            This blog goes along well with the Think Well class we had this past Wednesday, even though I’ve had this on my mind for a while. I lived in the state of Kansas for many years, but when I moved back, I moved back to a different state. State of mind, that is. Since joining Smoky Valley Chiropractic, I have made a very distinct and measurable change in my state of mind. I’ve always considered myself to be a positive and optimistic person, but I knew there were still some negative qualities hiding in there as well. Like, for example, I had a tendency to hold grudges. I don’t know why, but I did. One of the many things Dr. Loder has done to mentor me (the process is ongoing!) is give me a large stack of motivational CD’s. Now, my initial thought, was, “Oh, boy. Yipee.” BUT, like new vegetables, I’m trying to keep an open mind and try new things (for those of you who don’t know, I used to be quite the picky eater). I’ve actually really enjoyed the CD’s and they are great to listen to on my 20 minute drive to Lindsborg every morning. It’s a great way to get the day off to a great start. In fact, I’m re-listening to one right now because it was that good. 

Here are some of the things I’ve learned from the CD’s. Try implementing a couple for a week and see if they make as much difference in your life as they did mine!

     1.     Stop asking people, “How are you?” This opens them up to say something negative or to complain. Instead, make a positive statement about the day such as, “It’s so great to see you today!” or give them a compliment to boost their self-esteem. It’s really going to throw people when you don’t ask them how they are, but it will change your perspective as well as theirs.

     2.     When people ask YOU “How are you?” make sure to respond with a one word answer such as “Great!” or “Terrific!” Then, refer back to #1 – do not ask them how they are, but move on with a positive statement.

     3.     Encourage people to think positively. Those of you who follow me on Facebook, may have noticed that I’ve changed the focus of my status updates. I’m trying to only post positive events in my life or asking others to post positive events. Recently I asked people “What is one thing that makes you great? What is one thing you could do today to make yourself even greater?” Instead of posting something negative and getting a long string of comments, try posting something positive and see how many POSITIVE comments you can get! Positivity is contagious. Become infectious.

These three things seem SO SIMPLE, but have really had a large impact on my state of mind. Let me know how your little experiment goes! 

-         Dr. Emily :-)