Transitions Kuel Thought Leader: Nancy Tepper
The way you react is in your control.
“The way we chose to react is in our control, even if what we are responding to is not.”
As we navigate through the journey of life, we learn very quickly that we will have obstacles and bumps that are unforeseen and many times difficult. Even as small children, when we have our parents as protectors, we still encounter situations that require us to develop stronger coping skills and resilience.
As life unfolds and we grow up and mature, we must learn to count on ourselves to make the best of situations, even if they are adverse. There is always learning in life and having a good attitude, even in dire situations will make you more resilient and stronger. The way we chose to react is in our control, even if what we are responding to is not.
Developing A Positive Mindset Is Like Building A New Muscle:
Working on your mindset to see life through a positive lens is similar to developing a new muscle. It takes time for the muscle to become strong, but it eventually becomes a cornerstone of strength and something that you can count on.
Looking at the world more positively takes work and effort, but perspective can change if you pay attention to your thoughts, especially if you have a negative thinking pattern. Learning how to replace thoughts that are self-sabotaging and bring you down with positive thinking patterns can help you and those around you. The positive energy that we emanate through our minds is shared by everyone around us and we can all support each other by developing a positive lens.
“People who have positive mindsets remain more hopeful and see the best even in challenging times.”
If Life Gives You Lemons, Make Lemonade:
When life gives us lemons, we don’t always have the power to change what happens to us. However, when we reformulate our thinking in a way that allows us to find balance, it can lead us to a place where we can learn to cope better with adversity.
A positive attitude in our daily lives can also make us feel more optimistic, decreases tendencies to think negatively and worry, and brings more happiness and joy. People who have positive mindsets remain more hopeful and see the best even in challenging times. There are many ways you can change your outlook and you have to find what works best for you.
Some practices to consider when looking for this change is working on gratitude, developing a meditation practice, limiting negative self-talk, getting more exercise and sleep, and learning to reframe and distract when things need a new perspective. These are all proven techniques and can really help you to feel better.
“The goal is through a resilient mindset and strong coping skills, that we can get back on the line.”
How Can You Light Up A Dark Room With One Light?
Winston Churchill said “The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.”
These words are powerful and true and words we should carefully consider. Life will never go in a straight line. It will have ups and downs and zigs and zags. The goal is through a resilient mindset and strong coping skills, that we can get back on the line. We need to see the good in life, have gratitude and remember that it is a choice we make every day to see the positive side of things.
When we do this, we bring light into the world for everyone. A dark room is lit up by the light of one candle. When we practice positive thinking, we become a candle and bring light and energy to ourselves and others.
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About the Author:
Nancy Tepper is a 54 year- old mother of three living in New York City and having fun in this next chapter. She loves tennis, yoga, and is an avid reader. Nancy loves spending time with family and friends and loves to help people. She is currently a member of the Board and Executive Director of Stand Up! Girls which is a non-profit offering stand-up comedy classes to under-served girls in the five boroughs of New York City. Nancy is also a co-founder of MT Nesters podcast which offers valuable advice and inspiration to women who are empty nested and trying to pivot. Lastly, Nancy is a certified Life Coach and works with people who want to transition, or individuals who want to make positive changes in their lives