Over the past 14 months, I’ve really learned that attitude is everything. During a pandemic, while adjusting to new routines and expectations, new opportunities and ways of doing things, during my pregnancy, preparing for our move and then starting over in Charleston. I’ve spoken openly about how the emotions have been heavy. Over the past month and after lots of conversations with Dave, I feel like I’ve really leaned into HOW I approach these difficult situations. ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING.
I’ve made a big shift over the past year. I used to be obsessed with controlling situations, having high expectations for myself and those around me, caught up in how others perceived me, and feeling like every moment of my days were dedicated to doing, proving, and performing. Then something happened — I couldn’t keep up anymore. Operating at that level was destroying my attitude. I was constantly stressed, caught up in comparison, short-tempered, not honest about my own needs and just sort of was an unpleasant person to be around. So I gave up and I changed my attitude.
It’s not something that happens overnight. It is sort of an internal deep dive to discover why you feel a certain way and how you can turn your problems into possibilities. I wrote a blog post in the middle of last year about 4 ways to feel better — it’s a good read if you missed it! But I’ve learned some tricks that really help shift my attitude! A lot of them have to do with self-care. I notice that when I’m filling my own cup then I am less likely to feel unfulfilled in other areas of my life.
7 Ways to Change Your Attitude
- Get outside! Schedule a 30-minute walk in your day.
- Exercise. There is something magical that happens when you get your heart beating. It reminds you of your power, that you are stronger than you think. There are few instances in life when we push ourselves out of our comfort zone and exercise is one of them!
- Rest. Like really rest. Leave your phone, put your feet up and close your eyes. Let your body be still and settle your mind.
- Meet up with a friend. I think a major void we have all felt over the past year is human interaction. Dedicate some time to your friendships even if it feels like you don’t know where to start.
- Write it down. Write down your thoughts. Your journal never passes judgment and I always find that writing gives me a clearer understanding of how I’m actually feeling.
- Be inspired by something new. I can’t tell you how much joy I have found outside of social media lately. Popping into little shops, getting outdoors, finding seashells at the beach, sitting at a coffee shop, reading articles and books. Nothing on a screen will ever compare to witnessing the real thing. So go find that inspo!
- Breathe. I’ve learned so much about the power of some good deep breaths this year. The greatest way to press pause on your attitude and readjust.
Whenever I start to feel overwhelmed, I go back to these seven strategies. Even if they don’t change my actual situation or what’s happening around me, I feel a sense of calm and find the space to take a deep breath and say, “Okay. I’ve got this.” I hope they help you, too!
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