Negativity is something we all have to deal with in our lives. It matters not if the pessimism is from the news, social media, TV, radio, internet, friends, family or even within our own heads…it is a fact of life that will not be going anywhere soon.

The fact that is surrounds us on every front and has such a colossal effect on our mental and emotional health, it is essential that we address how to handle it and where we can garner the strength to combat it.

According to Google, negativity can cause us to dislike ourselves and others, reduce our confidence and self-esteem, and lower general life satisfaction.

Additionally, doctors have found that people with high levels of negativity are more likely to suffer from degenerative brain diseases, cardiovascular problems, digestive issues, and recover from sickness much slower than those with a positive mindset.

ALL OF THIS IS FROM NEGATIVITY!! Craziness!!! 🙁

“And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Romans 5:5

I think it’s worth mentioning that choosing positivity and hope is not a Polly Anna way of living. It is what God wants for us. It helps us help others and sheds light in a dark world.

As Paul wrote to the Philippians, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:8

Dwelling on the negative does us no good and actually causes way more anxiety and angst. Action is the only way to make a difference.

So, how do we prevent negativity from seeping into the pores of our lives? Well, here are a few suggestions:

1. Review who we speak to on a consistent basis and make changes as necessary. Obviously, we won’t be kicking family and friends to the curb. However, we can limit conversations, or even change the subject when negative creeps into the conversation.
2. Turn off the news. If we want to know what is going on in the world, politics or our neighborhood…we can specifically research what is happening. We don’t have to watch or read unnecessary stories that are not uplifting in nature.
3. Scroll past negative posts on social media. We are in control of what we allow to enter into our lives. Take the control back. Delete. Block. Unfriend.  It’s pretty simple.
4. GRATITUDE. This is my favorite because it’s almost impossible to be negative and grateful at the same time. When we focus on this piece of life, the rest of our lives will fall into a much better place!!!

I really hope that you will contemplate what changes could be made to keep negativity at bay in your life. It is worth a look and will lead to much more joy, contentment and hope in all of our lives. Plus, you might even spread a little light in the world!! Win-Win!

Some Wisdom for Today: “Know that wisdom is such to your soul; if you find it, there will be a future, and your hope will not be cut off.” Proverbs 24:14