Attitude. As defined by Merriam-Webster dictionary, “attitude is a mental position with regard to a fact or state; a feeling or emotion toward a fact or state.”

You can have a bad attitude or you can have a positive attitude. The choice is yours.

Generally speaking, people who maintain a positive approach to life situations and challenges are better able to move forward more constructively than those who become stuck in a negative attitude.

In today’s fast-paced world, staying positive – keeping that good attitude – can do wonders for you personally and professionally.  Here are a few suggestions to help you stay on a positive track.

Humor. When we smile the physiological change releases endorphins which make us feel better. That’s why a negative mood can be broken by a good laugh. If you can find the absurdity in your own circumstances, you can keep them from getting you down.

Keep company with positive people. Research shows that a person’s happiness depends on the happiness of the people they connect with. Psychologists agree that people with more supportive friends are less likely to develop depression and anxiety. Although you cannot choose your relatives or co-workers, you do have control over friendships. Choose wisely.

Focus on what is going well. People tend to focus on what is wrong. If you spend all your time talking about your aches and pains, the bills you have to pay, etc., you will only feel negative and so will everyone around you.  Instead, focus on what is going right in your life. You will feel positive and energized.

Be kind to yourself. Make it a habit each day to treat yourself to something that nurtures you, even if it’s something tiny. Take breaks during the day…. exercise, listen to the sounds of nature, or eat a little piece of chocolate.  Remember, recharging your batteries isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.