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Gail Kasper, Motivational Strategist and author of the life strategy audio CD program Make a Decision to Win and co-author along with Stephen Covey and Brian Tracy of the book, Mission Possible, identifies 7 powerful tips to ensure a positive mental attitude and a more-than-pleasant holiday experience.    

Loneliness, the death of a loved one, divorce, unwanted guests, financial challenges, or there is just too much to do and too little time to do it – whatever the feeling, it may cause someone to ask, “What’s fun about the holidays?” Though it may be easier to crawl into bed with the remote control than to face the overwhelming thoughts and activities of the holidays, this response will not bring us the contentment that we’re seeking during the holidays. Unfortunately, it will only cause procrastination, increase stress, and lead us to a deep depression. Studies have shown that worry and negativity can drastically affect our mental and physical well being. Negativity has lead to illness, depression, and even premature death.

On the other hand, according to researchers, studies have shown that people with a positive attitude have fewer emotional problems on a day to day basis, less interference from emotional problems when engaging in social activities, and are generally more peaceful and happier people. In essence, this is exactly what we’re trying to accomplish during the holidays.

7 Powerful Tips:

1. Take action. The number 1 way to increase our mental state is by “taking action.” This means “active planning.” What is it that you want to accomplish during the holiday season? We all have goals. What’s important is that we stay focused and accomplish those goals.

2. Create a budget and stick to it! What seems like fun in spending, only causes stress and depression one month later when the credit card bills show up. It’s not how much you spend, it’s the thought that counts.

3. Be realistic. Get active, but not to the point that you are stressed. You cannot do it all! And when “irritability” and “frustration” become a part of your life, it’s time to slow down.

4. Identify your strengths and accomplishments. When you’re feeling vulnerable or sad, it’s time for a pick-me-up. Everyone likes to hear good things about themselves so whether you call up a friend and ask them to share “the good things about you” or “you make the list yourself,” this is a must and will remind you that you can withstand any challenge…and that you are worthy to be happy.

5. Seek out family or friends. Don’t isolate yourself and wallow in your own self-pity. Seek out those who love you and enlist their help and support.

6. Exercise and eat right. Exercise is a great attitude-booster and negativity-killer. By activating your endorphins, you can reduce stress and depression as well as irritability. Take a brisk walk, visit a nearby gym with a friend, or join a gym yourself. Exercise and do it routinely. If you eat healthy, this will only enhance the results. Take the time for a well-balanced meal. This will keep you feeling at your best.

7. Give yourself permission to feel sad. If you are experiencing loneliness, divorce, or have recently lost a loved one, it’s okay to cry and express your feelings. Sometimes, this expression is just the relief you need to be at peace. Be true to yourself so that you can be true to your future…and your peace of mind.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, January 9th, 2007 at 3:02 pm and is filed under My Thoughts. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.