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6) See the glass as half full In most families, or circle of friends, there’s often one person who can’t see the silver lining in anything. To keep a Debbie Downer from bumming you out, acknowledge her point, then offer an alternative, more positive point of view.
For example, if your friendcomplains of slow service at a restaurant, agree that it could be speedier but also mention how grateful you are to catch up.
Forcing yourself to look on the bright side keeps you from focusing on the negative aspects of any situation. Who knows, you may even influence your friend to be more optimistic.
7) Keep things in perspective When life throws you the big curveballs, such as money issues or health concerns, resolve to look at the whole picture and keep things in perspective. When bad thoughts creep in, make an effort to think as rationally about your situation as possible. Ask yourself: Will canceling your yearly vacation scar your kids for life? No, it won’t. (They may even be relieved.) And if negative emotions and thoughts continue to spiral, call an impartial friend. (Family members can be too close for an unbiased perspective.) Ask her to remind you the facts, advises Dr Holstein.
The most important thing to remember is that it is possible to hold onto a sunny mood no matter what life throws at you. Now that’s something to smile about!
6) See the glass as half full In most families, or circle of friends, there’s often one person who can’t see the silver lining in anything. To keep a Debbie Downer from bumming you out, acknowledge her point, then offer an alternative, more positive point of view.
For example, if your friendcomplains of slow service at a restaurant, agree that it could be speedier but also mention how grateful you are to catch up.
Forcing yourself to look on the bright side keeps you from focusing on the negative aspects of any situation. Who knows, you may even influence your friend to be more optimistic.
7) Keep things in perspective When life throws you the big curveballs, such as money issues or health concerns, resolve to look at the whole picture and keep things in perspective. When bad thoughts creep in, make an effort to think as rationally about your situation as possible. Ask yourself: Will canceling your yearly vacation scar your kids for life? No, it won’t. (They may even be relieved.) And if negative emotions and thoughts continue to spiral, call an impartial friend. (Family members can be too close for an unbiased perspective.) Ask her to remind you the facts, advises Dr Holstein.
The most important thing to remember is that it is possible to hold onto a sunny mood no matter what life throws at you. Now that’s something to smile about!
