How much does it take to balance out the negativity?

By Lori Hanson

I don’t watch the news any more. I don’t want the negativity in my house or in my head. But the internet still does a great job of trying to suck us in with all the headlines they put up. I find it astounding how much negativity rules the airwaves. And how much judgment and trash talking is digested on a daily basis.

I’m in Southern California to speak at a conference this week. And just like when I lived here, there is a barrage of media totally focused on the celebs. One of the main questions I’ve always had is…who elected all these media people to be in charge of judging people’s appearances? The big blow up this week was on Ashley Judd. Why oh why does the media feel they need to weigh in (pun intended) on whether she’s gained weight, had cosmetic surgery or why her face has a puffy appearance? Is this really all we have left? Continuing to judge other people based solely on appearance? Is this what we’ve been driven to and what gets people to watch the tabloid shows? Good lord…

So I guess the none of the people collecting and sharing this information have any issues in their lives? They never have a bad hair day, gain or lose a few pounds or go out in clothes that win them on a spot on the what not to wear list?

I’m noticing lately, it’s not just appearance either. It’s the jilted coach/employee, the jilted caddie and golf coach that feel they need to weigh in and  make public comments on athletes they worked with or for. Um…what’s the point? The only reason people put someone else down is to make themselves look better…maybe a dose of healthy self-esteem would be a better solution.

I guess the reason it bothers me so much is I see the effects of the negativity everywhere. Yeah, this didn’t just happen, I get that. But how can people live their lives so focused on the negative? You will never change your life circumstances when all you focus on is the problems in your life. You have to begin looking for the solution if you expect to find one!

The other place that really illustrates the negative focus is Facebook. I read so many posts of people that are totally focused on what’s wrong, bitching and complaining day in and day out. Guess what?! It’s never gonna change when negativity is the focus of your life and your mindset.

Changing your vantage point takes a little practice. You’re breaking a well-developed habit. Shifting to see the glass as half full vs. half empty will take some getting used to. But it’s just like putting on a new pair of shades, it gives you a different lens to look through to a new perspective on life. Staying focused on all the negativity will keep you stuck, like stepping in cement. Making the choice to see the opportunities life hands you everyday vs. calling them problems is where you get to use your creativity and step outside box and color outside the lines. Our gifts of creativity are the biggest and least used gifts we have as humans.

Why not take a walk on the wild side? Use your creativity to see the world differently. Look for the positive, appreciate the opportunities life hands you and live every day with gusto. Remember, you ALWAYS have a choice, especially on how you view the world.

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