We are surrounded by negativity and nastiness. We are confronted by the worst of human nature each and every day. Some of us have jobs we can barely tolerate. For others it’s relationships that are particularly taxing.
While it’s not possible to control the negativity and nastiness that happens to us it is altogether possible to control that which happens through us. We can always be a better version of ourselves. We can make choices and one of those can be the choice for change.
The first step is acceptance of the fact that we are responsible for our own happiness. If we are unhappy and we find that state of mind and spirit unacceptable it becomes a personal challenge to work to reverse the situation. No-one can do it for us. As individuals we are unique. We can follow an example or listen to advice but if we then decide to do nothing there can be no change.
Key to happiness is an attitude of gratitude. It’s vital that we look through and past the negative to find the positive. It’s important to accept that there are situations and circumstances over which we have no control. Any effort expended there is effort wasted.
While negativity and nastiness draw the most attention, make the most noise and are given the biggest headlines, positivity, peace and love also exist in abundance.
We do best for our mental health when we hold the good things close and keep the bad at bay.
It can be a therapeutic move to write down the positives as we encounter them. The written word is a more accurate record and reminder than a mind being attacked by the noise of the world. And we often need reminding.
The space we occupy can be as organised, comfortable and happy as we allow it to be.
There is no reward for complacency.
Gary Bentley Counselling 