We talk a lot about living with your glass half-full or half empty. In truth, our attitude is defined by our perception. The good news is that attitude is part of cognition and something we can control. This is not to say times aren’t tough, they are. But with a little awareness and determination, we can ride out this storm with our sanity intact. Here are some tips for living abundantly:

Context is everything. Our environment contributes greatly to our sense of well-being. Be aware of your environment and surround yourself with people, places, and things that fulfill you at your core.

Consider the source. Media makes big bucks promoting sensationally bad news and we are inundated by messages. Take a break – turn off, power down and unplug.

Create a gratitude log. Actively show your appreciation. Volunteer and share your gifts. Gratitude restores our balance.

When is the last time you experienced FEAR?  Real fear.

When I coach people to be onstage, I often say that fear and excitement are related, two siblings or even cousins. I talk about how the two emotions are closely related, but recently I completed my first triathlon and experienced a HUGE dose of fear. I wasn’t afraid of the cycling or running portion, but swimming in the ocean? That really scared me .

It’s very different from the comfort of a swimming pool. Sometimes it’s hard to kick fear into the excitement category. I tried to tackle it head on. I did whatever it took to convince myself I could do it. Fake it til you make it.

In the future, I’ll be VERY careful when I encourage clients to convert their fear into excitement. Yes, I still do believe that they are related, and it is possible to move toward feeling excited versus fearful, but after being scared to death off the pier in Capitola, CA for my 1st Mermaid Triathlon this past Sept, I have a whole new respect for FEAR.

The truth is I think we can learn to co-exist with our fear. Experience it. Face it head on. Respect it. But don’t let it prevent us from moving forward. For me it was only after going through the fearful experience several times that it became easier. So, whatever scares you, I suggest you attempt it more than once before giving up or caving in. Let your courage kick in and stand beside the doubt.

I’m curious what other people’s experience with facing FEAR is like. Care to share?

Wouldn’t it be great if someone else could reinforce positive messages to help keep us focused on positive thoughts? Unfortunately we have to learn to do it for ourselves. Is your negative self-talk taking steering you in the wrong direction? Are you even aware how often your thoughts drift toward the negative side of the road?  Everyone has doubts and second-guesses things from time to time, but sometimes negativity becomes a nasty habit.