During one of my recent long runs, I opted to go iPod free, and instead just soak up some early morning peace and quiet while the city was waking up.   I’d like to think that many others out for a walk or run had a similar intent.  But I was shocked at what I noticed.

Have you ever passed someone on the street and heard just a snippet of their conversation? 

I often wish I could hear more about those stories that are being told with such vim and vigour.  But not that day.  Almost every snippet I heard was rooted in the negative.

I then started to notice conversations at the coffee shop.  In the office.  At the grocery store.  For whatever reason, most conversations were complaints.   Complaints about other people, events that happened in the office, events that happened in the news.  The late start to summer.   

But let’s be honest: 

How much space for happiness can you allow in your life if you inadvertently fill so much of your dialogue with negativity? 

We all do it to some degree.  And we all probably underestimate the amount that we do it. 

I’m sure you’ve heard of a little law in the world of quantum physics called the ‘law of attraction.’  You get out of life what you put into it.  So if you keep dishing out the negative, how do you think life will respond?  I would wager a guess that it won’t be rewarding you with finding the love of your life, landing your perfect job, or winning the vacation contest you entered last month. 

Your Practical Action Plan

Go positive.  For a day.  Yes, a full day.  We dare you.  Pay attention to every word that comes out of your mouth.  And try to catch anything that comes out negative – and restate it as a positive or as an opportunity. 

And when you’ve mastered what you say, give yourself the ultimate challenge.  Watch your thoughts.  See how many of them have a negative connotation.  Based in worry.  In fear.  In anger.  In sadness. 

You won’t be able to course correct every negative thought right away.  And there will certainly be times when life will through you something that will trigger a few negative vibes.  But at least be in control of when you’re letting yourself go down the negative route.   After all, you’re the only one who can be in the driver seat of your attitude.  So go to bed tonight with a big smile on – because tomorrow is your day of positivity!