Sometimes I need to shut down my computer for a bit, just to clear out the clutter from past tasks and make space for new input. The circuits become overloaded with information that has to be removed in order to receive new data. My mind is a lot like my computer at times, and sometimes it’s almost as if The Beach Boys are talking to me about “Good Vibrations!”
I’ve found a simple exercise that helps me reboot my thinking process during hectic times like the holiday season, when I’m suffering from information overload:
Before starting, turn off your phones, television and computer. Tape a note to the doorbell that says, “Do not ring or knock.” Sit in a comfortable chair and just relax for a minute or two. Close your eyes, take three deep breaths and let them out slowly. Relax your muscles, starting with your toes and slowly moving up (feet, ankles, legs, hips, fingers, arms, chest, back, shoulders, neck) to your face. Sort of “melt” into the chair.
Now, picture tying a hot air balloon to a trash can that is tethered beside you. Imagine lifting the lid off and dumping into it all your “stinkin’ thinkin’,” as Zig Ziglar would say. Toss away your negative attitudes, resentments, “can’t dos,” self-deprecating statements and overwhelming feelings, as well as any blinders, switches or buttons — and toss them in as well. Now put the lid on tight! Untether the can and watch the balloon carry all that negativity away. Then take a deep breath, let it out completely and slowly repeat to yourself, “GONE.”
Look inside yourself and you’ll see lots of room that is ready to fill full of good vibes! The following actions for a positive attitude will help keep those vibes going.
- Balance your life. Though things in one area may begin to go bad despite your best efforts, concentrate on the positives elsewhere.
- Keep going. Don’t give up. We all have setbacks. Don’t think of them as an end but as a beginning.
- Make the most of it. If things are less than ideal, look for ways you can make them more pleasant.
- Engage in positive self-talk. Telling yourself you can do something will help you succeed.
- Visualize success. This will help make you more self-assured and comfortable in the situation when it occurs.
- Attack problems head-on. When a negative situation occurs, find a way to turn it around.
- Look on the bright side. Make a habit to look at the good in life rather than the bad.
- Maintain a sense of humor. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Look for the humor in daily annoyances.
- Make work fun. If you think your job is dull and boring, look for ways to make it interesting.
- Accentuate the positive. Concentrate on ways to use your strengths and abilities, and look for ways to improve your weaknesses.
I Care, Barb
By Eve McClure January 21, 2022
After the Service ( Jan 2022 ) for my father I sank into a dark depression and allowed myself to fall back into negative habits with both comfort foods & negative self talk. Your article comes at the perfect time as I am just now trying to get back on track & stop making excuses to do what I know goes against my goals. I will see the numbers drop this week…I BELIEVE
By Shirley Renaud December 8, 2021
Definitely a keeper! You’ve been such a blessing to myself and our group this year!
Merry Christmas Barb to you and yours.!
By Nancy Strauss December 7, 2021
Barb after my husband passed I decided I would stop worrying about things and and be positive. He had been ill for years and in and out of the hospitals. I laugh more and I have more fun. being positive has helped me so much.
By Ruth Singer December 7, 2021
I really enjoyed your column this week We all go at a rapid pace this time of year and your advice will help me destress
Channukah can be a difficult time but this year I really watched what I ate
Merry Christmas and a Happy New year to you and yours
Ruth
By Sylvia Duncan December 6, 2021
All so true.Good to stop and just think things through about this season of feasting.
This week I can “eat to live” (healthily) not live to eat just as we say in our closing pledge..You inspired me again Barb,Thank you .
By May Scocco December 6, 2021
So touching…to my heart.
Shared my first White Hot Chocolate
from Starbucks tonight.
Peace, love, and good cheer to you
this holiday season. With love,
By Janet Long December 6, 2021
Very good advice. Some of the ideas I have not though of.
By Gina December 6, 2021
Good advice. There are times things get over whelming.
By Evelyn Rowe December 6, 2021
Love reading your blogs. Thus is an excellent one.
Merry Christmas to you and yours, may the new year be your best yet.
By Beth Vardon December 6, 2021
Thanks Barb. I needed to hear this today. I do have to be reminded that I have many positives in my life and to not always focus on the negative.
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
By Phyllis B. Solod December 6, 2021
Hi Barb,
Thanks for the weekly blogs. I enjoy reading them.
Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
I enjoyed celebrating Channukah with family and friends.
Phyllis
By Ann December 6, 2021
This is my favorite ever!! I love reading your blog Barb.