The Things We Tell Ourselves

Act happy, feel happy, be happy, without a reason in the world. Then you can love, and do what you will.
(Dan Millman)

Do you ever have those days when the sun is shining, the grass is green and the birds are singing—but for some reason, you're grumpy, frumpy and in a bad mood? When I'm feeling down, I try to stop and listen to the to the story playing in my head. Is it uplifting and positive, or does it cut me down and make me feel worse?

It's important to realize that we have a choice to ignore that mean little voice—and we have an opportunity to set the record straight. Negative self talk is like a fire, it needs oxygen and energy to grow. Instead of fueling your inner Negative Nelly and her cries of doubt, take her power away with a big blanket of kindness.

I know this is easier said than done, but it's something that I'm working on. I'd never let someone talk to my best friend the way my Negative Nelly tries to talk to me—and even though I can't control the thoughts that crop up, I can choose which seeds I water. Without the proper nutrients, those nasty thoughts won't survive long.

Next time you find yourself grumpy, frumpy and in a bad mood, remember that you have some options. You could wallow and let the mood settle in for awhile (a very valid choice at times), or you could try to shake those blues.

Wear a subtle smile with your favorite lip gloss. Send loving thoughts to the people you care about most. Think of happy memories, or beautiful daydreams.

Remember that your inner Negative Nelly is a mean and misunderstood little girl with pigtails and a pink skirt. Give her a tiara, some crayons and a jump rope. Let her go play in the corner while you go on living your gorgeous, sunshine-filled life.

Image: Eelke Dekker