It's All How You Look At It

Recently I have learned and re-learned a very important lesson. This lesson is that it's all how you look at it. Perspective is a very useful tool. It can make or break you. I have come to realize that our thoughts direct a great amount of our behavior. I don't know why it took so long for this connection to sink in, but think about it. How many times have you thought, "Well they won't like me so why should I talk to them?" This is not only a thought that leads to judging someone else, but also yourself. Recently I have been going through a leadership training of sorts and have really started to make an effort to think about what I am thinking about. Often times we see people as objects. And often times it is with out meaning to. How many times have you passed someone on the street and judged them without even thinking about it? It happens a lot, but when we make a conscious effort to try and see people as people the world around you begins to change. Your relationships become more meaningful, you see yourself differently, and life is just happier.
Onto a related, but different subject. Changing the way you see yourself and view the world. Recently I have been reading a book titled Learned Optimism. This book is all about how by changing your thoughts and the way that you explain things you can change your life. At first I thought it was all a bunch of gobbly psych gook, but then I thought about it and really began to try it. I noticed when I was saying something that sounded a tad pessimistic and I changed that. I noticed when I was aware of what I was thinking and making an effort to think in a more optimistic way I was more optimistic.
As I have said before in this blog, I often get asked why I am so happy, or how do I always have a smile on my face. As I have recently truly began to think of the reason why I seem to be always happy is because I rarely let myself be sad. I try not to allow negative thoughts into my brain. If I find that I have had a particularly bad day and am feeling down, I surround myself with things that make me happy. I try my hardest to be happy and change my thoughts and then I am. It's really a wonderful thing. Now, don't get me wrong, there are PLENTY of days where I am not the happiest kid on the playground, but the fact is I try. I make a conscious effort to monitor my thoughts and make sure they are aligned with the attitude I want to have and then I do it.
So, what's the message here? Thoughts matter. The way you see things effects the way that your life is. Think about what you are thinking about. Treat people like people, and of course remember to smile, because no one likes a frowny face! :)