If you decide to do something, make the best of it and find your positive attitude.

Not only will it make you happier, benefit your health, and help you access your best self, but it will also make life go better for you.

I’ve experienced this firsthand. When I let go of a negative attitude, whether about visiting my mother-in-law or baking cookies for a fundraiser, shifting my thoughts made a difference.

Instead of thinking, "I don't have time for this," I told myself, "I can enjoy this time, listen to a story, and enjoy some yummy cookies I love that I don’t often get."

Or, instead of thinking, "My mother-in-law is so critical," I focused on how playful she is with the kids and thought, "They’ll have a great time."

When I take the time to shift my perspective, I often end up enjoying myself. What a relief to spend less time feeling miserable and have more energy to get things done and enjoy myself.

I think of one client who used to dread attending her grandkids' events. She disliked the noise and crowds, and felt trapped—either avoiding them, which upset her son, or going and feeling miserable.

But when she shifted her attitude, she started attending and looking for the joy around her. She focused on the kids' fun and thought about the excitement they must feel playing on a team and getting good at something. To her surprise, she didn’t feel overwhelmed or claustrophobic; she actually had a good time.

Another client hated dressing up for a party she was expected to attend every year. She always felt uncomfortable and awkward. So, she decided, the heck with them, she’d go in something comfortable, even if she was the only one. At first, she imagined the reactions if she showed up in jeans and a sweatshirt, which made her laugh. In the end, she chose to dress up but found a dress that was both comfortable and flattering. She realized her discomfort came from wearing outdated, too-tight clothes that didn’t fit properly. She ended up going and had a great time.

“There is no greater gift than feeling good in the now moment.”

Sharon