Accentuate the Positive

Accentuate the Positive

It’s so simple–the advice given in the above quote–and so true. Each of us has the power to elevate the value and quality of our life, as well as the way others perceive us, simply by “lifting up” our thoughts, by placing our hands firmly on the wheel of positive thinking. Earl Nightingale suggests that we imagine that we are the operator of a huge piece of earth-moving equipment. Perched in a small cab, hands on the wheel, we have the ability to move vast amounts of earth. Who would purposely take their hands off the wheel and let the machine run itself into a ditch?

Our minds, and hence our thoughts, mirror that steering wheel. Through positive thoughts, we can guide ourselves in a direction that produces positive actions, resulting in positive reactions from others. Refusing to keep our hands on the wheel will quickly deliver us into life’s ditches.

Life today is complex. It brings with it many opportunities for negative thinking. They range from the personal early morning “Hurry up, we’re going to be late!” to the mid-day business crisis of “This project is never going to be any good!” (Both are called “fortune telling” behavior.)

The next time we feel frustrated and negativity begins creeping into our vocabulary, we should consciously replace it with a positive statement, or use humor to address the situation. Not only will this help us pull ourselves out of negative thinking, but it will make it less stressful for others who are within earshot. Let’s help ourselves and those around us–whether family, friends or colleagues–feel more hopeful and optimistic by accentuating the positive!