Do you ever have days when absolutely everything seems to go wrong?
During times like this, food starts looking like a really good friend.
But wait! You certainly don’t have to give in and eat.
Instead of letting your struggles pull you down, start training yourself to notice all the good things around you.
To get back your joy and sunshine, watch for the positive things that show up when you weren’t even looking for them.
Label these tiny bright spots as rainbows—gifts that slip in quietly, giving you an emotional boost right in the middle of an otherwise difficult day.
Look around you. Is the sun shining? Was someone kind to you at the bank or in the grocery store? Did you drink a great cup of tea this afternoon?
Cultivate a sense of gratitude about the simple things that happen in your life. Be thankful each time that your children arrive home safely after school.
At bedtime, appreciate your cozy blanket and the way your pillow fluffs up under your head. Make notes about your rainbows and consider all the ways they help you feel better.
While these may seem like small things, if you pay attention to your rainbows and appreciate them, you can totally change your outlook.
Today’s assignment (My answers are in blue)
1. Notice the positive things that happen around you today. Record these “rainbows” as you go through the day.
Blue sky, sunshine, a full moon, a great cup of coffee, a good nights sleep, hearing a favorite song and singing along
2. At the end of your day, tell yourself, “This was a really good day because…,” then read your list. As you recall each rainbow, remind yourself of the pleasure and comfort it brought you.
Reading my list feels wonderful. I am truly blessed!
3. Over the weeks ahead, continue to watch for more tiny rainbows to smile about, then celebrate and appreciate every one of them. Record them here.
I’ve been paying extra attention to things such as birds singing, and my dog snuggling on my lap. Also people who have been a lot of fun or extra kind to me.
Excerpted from day 74 in 100 Days of Weight Loss