The Optimist

The Optimist

A lot of people go through their day and without stopping to think about other people. I am talking about the breed of self-absorbed people that can ruin anyones day. They are called "downers", They come in all shapes and sizes. They can be bullies from high school, current coworkers and your everyday customers. They are the sour apples we all come in contact with.

I am here to tell you all about how to deal with "downers". This is how you get yourself to be apart of the "uppers" group everyday.

Everyone wants to be apart of the "uppers" group. "Uppers" are people who can make the best out of any situation because they are strong willed. There is a huge misconception that the only people who are happy are the fortunate ones. Happiness is all about using your brain to your advantage instead of having it be your disadvantage.We as humans tend to focus too much on bad things that happen.

There are four things you can do to help you get out of the funk "downers" give you

1. Assess the Situation

Do the people you come in contact with have your life?

No, they do not. They have their life, you have yours. You are your own person, they are subsequent to you. If they are rude, let them wear themselves out with their bad behavior. You are a strong person, just grin and bear it. Who deserves to have a great day everyday? You do! Whether that downer likes it or not, you are an upper whose not feeding into their bad attitude.

2. Exercise

Exercise is not only done in a gym. If you can, take a break from whatever your doing. Remove yourself from the downer. Let yourself have control. Give yourself an opportunity to regroup. Come back with a different attitude. Do not drink the poison the downer is giving you. Go for a run, pace a little in the bathroom/hallway or occupy yourself with a heavy lifting task. Give your body the opportunity to move around. Breathing room is exactly what can stop the perpetuation of a "downers" actions from hanging out in your head.

3. Leave the House

This day in age it is hard, people naturally get snug in their daily routines. However, being a homebody is bad news. Your brain is your best friend, who always wants to do something new. Recognize it as a sign if your always carrying a frown. Staying in may be more convenient, However, convenient is not going to bring you happy. Your brains need change, redundant behavior such as staying in makes it sick. Give it a new stimulus. Try something new, go rock climbing, try shopping at a new store (besides the few stores you usually go to). The possibilities are endless of what you can come across when you walk out your front door.

4. Be Nicer to Strangers

No one is ever going to meet everyone on the planet. Some people are uncomfortable with meeting new folks. Step outside your comfort zone. Help the lady who has weak arms hold her umbrella up on this rainy day. Even if she she says no, you offered. You might be the only one she talks to today. Remember you never know whose day you might make. Socializing and meeting people help to improve your mental health.

Life is what you make it. Make everyday a great one.

Be back next Thursday.