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The bright side isn’t always obvious, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t there.
For some reason, every year when we enter the cold, dark depths of winter, a lot of us start to become extra critical of different aspects of our lives. Negativity builds up, and we may find ourselves in a funk. Not only does this mental cloud of bad weather keep you down, but your energy will radiate to the people around you, too. Truth is, being able to spin a perceived negative situation into a more positive light is an invaluable skill. Here are some tips to get you started.
How to see the positive when…
…you’re having a tough time saving money.
Aren’t we all? Don’t be too hard on yourself. This is a simple one to turn around. First, props to you for being responsible enough to even think about your savings, and second, know that each day you likely have several opportunities to save a little extra cash. Analyzing your habits can help put things into perspective. Do you spend $5 on coffee a day? Switch to tea on Thursdays and keep an extra $20 in your account each month.
…you’ve been working out like crazy and aren’t seeing the results.
This can be frustrating, no doubt, but there are a lot of things going on that you don’t necessarily see. If you’ve been putting in the work, then realistically you’re probably getting the results, even if it doesn’t appear that way. You see yourself every single day, and because the change is gradual, you’re somewhat immune to your own physical change. Stay strong and trust that your hard work is paying off, because it totally is.
…you’ve been single for years.
It’s admittedly much more difficult to meet people in the wintery months. But the major plus about braving another winter solo is the time you have for yourself. Time is golden, and with no one else to compromise with on how to spend it, you’re free as a bird to explore any new thing you please. And they say love happens when you least expect it. But if not, the single version of you is probably more fun anyway!
…your friendships have been tough lately.
Welcome to the life of a young adult. Knowing that we all experience highs and lows, it’s only fair to occasionally cut friends some slack—or hope they do so for you. We’ve all got a lot going on, and maintaining perfect relationships and dealing with the rest of life can be a lot to handle gracefully. Friendships are always a group effort, but if you know you’re pulling your weight, try to be more understanding of the fact that your friends might be currently experiencing their own winter funk.
…you don’t feel like you’re where you should be in your career.
If you’re feeling this way, that’s great! It means you’re not about settling and are still aspiring for something bigger and better for yourself. Avoid falling into the negativity trap because it won’t help you grow. Understand that the current place in your career was once somewhere that you wanted to be. You’ve succeeded in making it there, and now may be the ideal time to sit down, organize your thoughts and get back to work on the master plan.
