This post is shamelessly stolen from “Make It Great! with Phil Gerbyshak.
September 13 was Happy Positive Thinking Day and in observance, Phil wrote up a blog post on 5 ways we can all make a more positive attitude. I really liked his suggestions and though I would, therefore, pass them off to you. Remember, all the words, anecdotes, and suggestions are his. They were quite relevant and compelling though so I have not altered a word. Enjoy!

• Reframe the situation. No matter how dire the situation is, unless you’re dead, it could always be worse. Trust me. This year, I’ve hit bottom in a lot of my life. Over half my team turned over. I’ve worked REALLY long hours. My best friend moved away. My bank account has been near zero. I gained 20 more pounds.

I’ve had to reframe most of my life.

I have new ideas from all my new people.

I learned a lot during the long hours.

I still talk to my best friend.

My bank account is slowly growing.

I’m doing a duathalon tomorrow to jump start my exercise program.

All depends on how I look at it.

It all depends on how YOU look at it.

• Count your blessings. I have a lot to be thankful for. You probably do too. Write the blessings down. Understand your abundance and be thankful for it.

• Give thanks to those who’ve helped you. Few people are self-made anymore, but few know how big of an impact they’ve had on your life. Give them a call, and say thanks. Or send a hand-written thank you note. Nobody does that anymore.

• Read or listen to something that makes you smile. Re-read a favorite book or article. Listen to some fun music. Maybe it’s the sound of a baby, or the sound of your brother. Call someone who’ll make you smile.

• Smile or make a silly face for no reason. Start small, and just smile. It won’t hurt anything. Just smile big and wide!