FIVE STEPS TO POSITIVE LIVING
By Rev. Dr. Arthur Chang
Using the Science of Mind means observing the principles of how things work. When we know the principle back of accomplishing our goals, we will find ourselves becoming more reinforced by success, and we will be better able to master any failures that are likely to come along.
The following are five steps or principles to positive living in times of success and failure. A positive mindset or consciousness will keep you from depression and allow you to function your best in the world.
1. Find Work that Focuses Your Strengths
Successful people are those who work at their strengths and do not struggle through life trying merely to improve their weaknesses. Your strengths are your talents, which have been developed by adding skill and knowledge.
What do you love to do? What you love to do is an indication of your talent. The challenge is to see how you can bring your talents to the work that you do or find work that will make better use of you talents.
2. Cultivate the Consciousness of Gratitude
When you cultivate the consciousness of gratitude, you may find others asking, “Why are you so upbeat and positive?” Gratitude gives us back a boost of the good feelings we are giving. For example, when I am walking for exercise and going up a hill where no one else is coming, I will slip off my mask and get a charge of oxygen that makes the climb so much easier.
This is similar to sending a thank you note to someone who has been good to you. You can write an email, or call on the phone. However you do it, do it a few times each week. Call your relatives and express your appreciation for them.
3. Practice Mindfulness
By practicing mindfulness, you can learn to savor and appreciate the moments of your life.
What do you give your attention to each day? Mindfulness is keeping our minds tuned to peace, love and goodness. When you see your work through these lenses, you will reduce your stress and feel much more at ease and positive in your world.
4. Adopt a Growth Mindset or Growth Consciousness
A growth mindset, or a growth consciousness, will make us vitally aware that even failure, confusion and conflict are part of growth. That is the nature of the world. New thoughts and novelty arise from this medium. Novelty is what advances the world. We do not have to be like the genius, Thomas Edison, to realize that problems are simply opportunities disguised. Once we realize this condition is part of the process of creating our dreams, it will not set us back. We will be in the process of becoming.
5. Write a Future Diary
Write a future diary to answer the following questions:
· What is your future like?
· How do people respond to you relationally i.e., your impact on them and theirs on you?
· How is your life transformed?
· How will you help and support other people?
If you use these five steps, you will be enjoying a positive life.
