Here’s a practice I’ve mentioned in other posts. I call it Seeing the Good in Things, or STG for short (Seeing The Good).
Keeping in mind basic needs, the most basic being positivity, look around and see how much beauty and positivity you can find in your environment. This is just a simple practice to reinforce the mind’s habit to find positivity wherever we are. We are creatures of habit, so why not make it a habit to see the good wherever we might be.
After committing to this practice for a few years now, I’ve found that old negative thoughts (habits) will give way to new positive thoughts, automatically, without any intention. I’ve had, like many people, a tendency to worry about my health, about what kind of health problem(s) I might have as I get older. There are many options for diseases, as I’m sure many of you are aware! Well, my mind has taken on a new habit. Whenever I start to worry about future health problems, my mind automatically starts thinking “Strong and Healthy” as an alternative. The anxiety goes away quickly/immediately as I’m reminded that our thoughts will influence our well being. So give it a try, and start forming new mental habits and a better mood and attitude.
To do the practice, just take a minute or two and look around. See any good things happening? See any beauty in your surroundings? Any creativity? What about these: friendliness, strength, kindness, love, romance, laughter, fun, happiness, joy, service to others? There are so many positive possibilities we can find. You may see people exercising and practicing self discipline. Maybe people are celebrating a birthday or an achievement. Maybe someone’s just walking along the sidewalk peacefully, getting fresh air. Maybe someone is being patient with someone in front of them. Maybe you simply see cars driving down the street and respecting the traffic laws and maintaining safety. And what about yourself? Are you experiencing a moment of comfort and ease as you observe all the good things going on around you? Is your mind using the opportunity to vent some difficult thoughts and emotions? That’s a good thing, too. The possibilities are endless. Finding the good in things is just a matter of taking a certain attitude and perspective. So give it a try and create a habit of seeing the good in things!