Focusing on the positve

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.  Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.     Philippians 4:8-9.

      This is one of my favorite passages from the Bible.  An article "Stress for Success: Cultivate positive experiences to rewire the bad ones", reinforces this admonition.  A few steps are recommended in order for us to retain positive experiences, that provide something of a stronghold against the inevitable pain that we encounter.

1. Keep an eye out for good news, even small things can help to bring us a lift.
2. Focus for five to 20 seconds on positive experiences.  Take time to soak in those inspiring moments. This releases dopamine in the brain, and helps us to retain those good memories.
3. Relax and absorb the experience... savor the feeling.  

We seem to be biologically wired to pay more attention to negative things, as is evidenced in the nightly news.  However we also have the capacity to refocus on those positive things which might better contribute to our mental and physical well being.

Tips for reducing stress in the workplace

I've been saying for some time now that either you're stressed because you have a job, or because you don't.  I might add, given the recent financial craziness you might be stressed because either you have money in the markets or you don't...  
I'm sharing a helpful article that was originally posted in the St. Petersburg Times in today's StarTribune, "Work got you down? These tips might help".

• Look for at least two things that make you happy on your way to work each day.
• When you're stressed, take a moment and breathe deeply. Then let your breath out slowly. You'll feel yourself calm down.
• Avoid the office gossips and people who complain all the time. They'll only bring you down.
• Make a list of all the things you like about your job. Things might seem negative now, but there are bound to be aspects of your work that give you pleasure and a sense of purpose.
• List how your job benefits you. Income, training, ability to be with other people.
• Get away from your desk or work area at least twice a day. Take a short walk around the area. It's good exercise and gets your mind off the things that are pulling you down.
• Take baby steps as you attack your workload and set realistic goals. You'll feel better about your job and yourself when you complete what you can. Then forget about work until the next day.
• To the extent you can, make your work area someplace you enjoy. Use colors you like, pictures and reminders of happy times.
• Percolate the perks. Take advantage of training, networking opportunities and recognition programs that are available to you. Sharpen your skills, add new abilities and stay in a positive frame of mind.