Some thoughts and discussions from me.
Cheer Up
A couple months ago, I was going through a funk, of sorts. Nothing detrimental happened in my life, and I didn’t have anything horrible happen to me. Nothing changed in my life except one thing – my attitude.
I joke with Shane a lot because I swear he knows me 10 x’s better than I know myself. It’s almost scary! So, one day after a couple weeks of moping around and being glum, we had it out, and when we got to the bottom of it, it came down to losing my cheerful, optimistic, not-too-serious outlook on life.
In general, I tend to be a positive person…but it’s not because I’m naturally happy and cheerful. I can be shy, introverted, and introspective. But in my 28 (almost 29 – eek!) years on this earth, I’ve learned that life’s a whole lot better when you have a rosy outlook on life.
Since then, I’ve forced myself to go back to my old practices by putting out – and taking in – positive energy, rather than negative vibes. But before doing that, I had to dig to find out what, exactly, was robbing me of my joy. And when I looked inward, I found that they were all silly, extrinsic, simple, insignificant daily frustrations:
- getting angry in traffic because of red lights/not giving myself enough time to get places
- thinking that I was too busy, constantly working on my to do list
- comparing my life – and what I don’t have- to others, whether it be in real life, on the internet, or on tv
And it’s not just about being happy vs. being unhappy. Stress and feeling unhappy has a physical effect on the body. For example (and perhaps TMI) – my cycles have been on point and exact ever since May, and then all of the sudden, in November, I was about 7 days late. I’m 100% positive it was because of my “funk.” And these silly things robbed me of what makes me love life – my enthusiasm for it!
I try to have enthusiasm for most aspects of life. I don’t just train people, I enthusiastically train them. I don’t just love those in my life, I’m in love with loving them. Instead of just leading a class through a workout, I try to make it an entire experience for them – and me! And that just wasn’t happening when I was in my funk.
Then when I remembered it was all my doing – my choice to be happy, I changed it. Here’s how I changed it:
1. Show up to work feeling how I should feel – LUCKY! Being a trainer is a very rewarding job in that I literally have the opportunity to completely change someone’s life in a positive way. I have a very big impact on not only their day and health, but their life. I’m so lucky to be in such a rewarding field of work, and each day I plan on reminding myself of that to get me pumped up to train my clients and teach my classes 
2. Focus on what I DO have. I don’t typically have issues with comparing my life to others’ lives, but when it does sometimes happen – it sucks! Plus, no one broadcasts their trials or troubles to the world. They broadcast their victories and blessings! I know that I have so many blessings in my life, and when I focus on those, life’s just more enjoyable.
3. Have a positive impact on others in my daily life. As my favorite author likes to say…
And that quote couldn’t be more true. We feel what we project into the world. If we project positivity and nice-ness, that’s the way we’ll feel. It’s simple, really: just smile at people and don’t be an asshole.
4. Make better use of my time. Time sucks= facebook and other social media platforms, mindless TV, etc. I’ve been trying to be more structured about my work here at the computer. If I tell myself that I’m going to spend the next hour working, then that’s what I’m going to do – work. Not tool around on Facebook, blogs, and other social media platforms. (Unless it’s work.) This means having variety in my routine, too, and not being an all-or-nothing person. This also means that I have more time for yoga, my pets, my fam, my faith, the great outdoors…basically everything in #5…
5. Do something FUN every day.
The other day after training a client, I headed over to Mount Sanitas to hike – by myself. It was 2 hours of pure enjoyment, complete with awe-inspiring views, burning lungs, and an appreciation for movement. If my knees and schedule would allow, I’d do that every day. But other activities that are pure enjoyment for me are puppy cuddling, spending time with Shane and friends, taking a bath, reading, etc.
How do you make sure a bad attitude doesn’t rob you of life’s joys?
Love this post and I too came to the conclusion that if you are positive, life will smile back to you 🙂
blackhuff recently posted…Hip flexors (iliopsoas muscle)
Great post. I think we all get stuck in the comparison trap and that can definitely make a person blue! And I’m so with you (and Mr. Twain) on doing something to cheer someone else up. Have a good Friday
Love that Mr. Twain 😉
Feeling grateful and giving back definitely are mood busters for me! Along with a nice long walk and a hot drink and/or caffeine!
Danielle @ LabelsAreForTinCans recently posted…Workouts I’ve Tried Lately + Loved (No. 3)
Great post, Paige! When I learned to CHOOSE to be happy, it was a huge change in my life and I’m honestly a much happier person because of it. It’s not always easy to do and I’ve tried to tell friends who are going through a major funk and I think it’s often hard for them to see as a possibility. Glad you’re finding your happy place again! 🙂
Katie @ Talk Less, Say More recently posted…2014 Fitness
This is just so spot on. Attitude is everything. In fact, yesterday I resumed teaching after Christmas break, and I really concentrated on having a better attitude about it despite my lackluster feelings for the job. It really did make a difference!
Natalie @ Free Range Human recently posted…Hopeful
That’s such a great way to be, Natalie. We just can’t let our situations determine our attitude!
I can definitely relate to this. My often anxious and “what COULD be” attitude has robbed me of experiencing all the joy that is bursting at the seams in my life. This past year has taught me more than ever to take a step back to look at all the blessings around me, which has helped me become 10x happier on a daily basis. I try my best to look at everything as a great opportunity to learn, become closer with others, or to grow as a person.
Alison @ Daily Moves and Grooves recently posted…Fascinating Friday Links #18
That’s so awesome, Alison!!
This is a great post! I always try to remember that the only thing I >> always << have control over is how I react to a situation. And eventually, it just becomes habit to respond to situations with a positive outlook. And if I'm in a really bad mood, I indulge my negative feelings as long as I need to, and then, I move on because holding onto anger/frustration/whatever only hinders me and my happiness. Happy 2014!
Yes!! I have to constantly remind myself that I can control my reactions – as long as I pause before them.
It does seem so silly, but when it’s just a matter of being in a funk (and not something clinical like depression) I can often turn it around by simply reminding myself that joy and gratefulness is a choice. I can choose to be pissed off and angry, or I can choose to appreciate what I have in my life. It’s amazing that sometimes it really can be that simple!
Sybil recently posted…So, Now What?
What a good reminder, Sybil 🙂
You know, I wish I had the answer to that last question. I’m a tiny ball of fury and stress most of the time. I like your spin on this and wish I felt it was so simple. My brain likes to play games. 🙂
Courtney @ Don’t Blink. Just Run. recently posted…A Year In Pictures (2013)
Maybe trick your brain into thinking it’s this simple! Mind over matter. Sorry you’re feeling stressed, girl 🙁
Wow, I just listened to Bart Star (old Packer quarterback) in an interview on the radio! His comment was something on the order that next to God, attitude is the next important thing in life.
Great post, Paige.
Agreed! And I think God and attitude have a lot to do with one another 😉
I always have to bookmark your posts and this is the case again! I love the idea of doing something FUN everyday. I’m awake and going now! 🙂
Julie recently posted…Five Things Friday: First Favorites of 2014
Such a great post Paige! I’m smiling more like I used to. I miss that girl that used to get comments on how much she smiled. I told Tony today that I was so happy to be where I am right now. No, it’s not perfect, but I’m so lucky for so many things. Focusing on the things I don’t have is never good. Love the positive outlook my friend! Happy New Year!
Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) recently posted…(Gluten Free) Turkey Pot, Turkey Pot, Turkey Pot Pie…
Don’t take this wrong, but I thought you seemed happier when I saw you this weekend. I go through funky phases at times and I love that you were able to pull yourself out of one by changing your perspective – yay! 🙂
Heather @ Better With Veggies recently posted…Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle
Not taken wrong at all 🙂 I tend to kinda wear my emotions on my sleeve 😉
I try to embrace the both the high and low feelings!
Hayley recently posted…Brrrrrr… and my first recipe!
I go through little bouts of this throughout the year. I physically have to tell myself to cheer up. That whole “fake it till ya make it” is a good saying sometimes. After telling myself enough times to be positive, thankful for what I have and the life that I’m leading I really do start to feel better!
great post! I’ve been in SUCH a funk the past few months but in January I resolved that this year I’m just going to have fun – no matter what – having fun is essential so that is exactly what I’m going to do haha