Today is the first day of the rest of your life! Decide right now to sit in the driver’s seat of your life and take hold of the steering wheel while you travel throughout your day.  Do not allow others to determine your mood, your happiness, or your sense of well-being.  You may not be in control of every aspect of your schedule or the events you face each day but you definitely have control over how you decide to respond to them.

Here are three quick tips to help you get started:

1.         Choose a positive affirmation for the day.  Start your morning by repeating it slowing at least three times. Use this same affirmation throughout the day when negative thoughts begin to surface.  Take a few minutes to close your eyes and repeat it several times in your mind or out loud slowly and purposefully.

2.         Select one item from your “to-do” list that you have been meaning to get done and take the time to complete it during the first half of your day. Just do it!   It is incredibly empowering to finish a task that you have allowed to remain “un-done” by letting daily distractions get in the way. It is also very motivating and creates a momentum that will help you complete the next item on your “to-do” list.

3.         Take “five”.  Meaning take at least five minutes to regroup and refocus when necessary. If you notice intense emotions beginning to erupt such as frustration, anger, and anxiety or begin to feel overwhelmed, try removing yourself as quickly as possible, from the situation or environment for at least five minutes.  Whether it means closing your office (or bedroom) door, sitting in your car, taking a walk around the block, or just standing in your backyard, find and make a way to remove yourself physically from the situation to clear and calm your mind. This would be a perfect time to practice tip #1!

Remember the goal of this Power-Up Thought is to help you stay in control of your response to the world around you – be the driver in your life’s journey not the passenger!

 “How would your life be different if…You stopped worrying about things you can’t control and started focusing on the things you can? Let today be the day…You free yourself from fruitless worry, seize the day and take effective action on things you can change.” ― Steve Maraboli, Life, the Truth, and Being Free