Setting Goals for the New Year

A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one Year and out the other.  -Anonymous  

I am not a fan of New Year’s resolutions, so I usually don’t make any.  People who make New Year’s resolutions tend to become frustrated when they are unable to keep them.  Such resolutions are sometimes not carefully thought out, are made in haste, or they are based on present feelings or emotions.  It all sounds pretty good on January first, but by the time March or April rolls around we are wondering why we thought we could do this all year – whatever the resolutions was.  Don’t make a resolution you honestly don’t believe you can or will keep.  What I mean is, before you pay a year in advance for the membership at the local health club, be certain you intend to follow through with that commitment.   

Rather than make resolutions, try instead to set a few goals which you believe you can achieve in the coming year.  As you consider goals for the coming year, think in terms of goals that are reasonable and attainable.  Write down a list of possible goals, and then go back and determine which ones are the most feasible.  Develop a plan as to how your goals can be accomplished.  Having narrowed them down to a few reasonable goals, take steps to put them into action.  We often think of achievements such as losing weight or taking up an exercise program.  Those are fine, but think also about goals that pertain to attitude.   

Consider these suggestions to put into practice for the New Year which will assist in being a happier and more positive person:

• Resolve to stop making negative statements.  Condemning and hateful remarks have a harmful effect on our outlook and interpersonal relationships.  Make a conscious decision to make positive statement rather than negative.
  

• Resolve to be a better listener.  Learn to relax during a conversation.  Let others have the glory when telling their story.  Learn to stop and seriously listen to what people are saying to you.  Rest assured that you will get your chance to speak.  Being a better listener will have a powerful effect on how you relate to your family, friends, and coworkers.
  

• Resolve to start being on time.  Countless people are always running late.  Make a decision that in the coming year you will learn to better manage your time so that you will arrive on time where you are supposed to be.  As a result you will be more relaxed and focused.
  

• Resolve to compliment others, tell people you appreciate them, and say “thank you” when someone does something nice for you.  The little attitude adjustments can work wonders on our outlook over the long haul.

So, what are you waiting for?  Get ready, for the New Year has come. 

It’s going to be a great year!

Taking the Time to Enjoy the Small Blessings

Reflect upon your present blessings of which every man has many - not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.   -Charles Dickens 

I receive more inspirational email forwards than I can begin to read, but sometimes one will catch my attention.  There are a number of them I hope to never see again, but probably will as email forwards have a way of making the rounds ever so often.  The one I was thinking of came to my inbox right before Christmas.  You have probably received it many times, but on the outside chance that you haven’t, allow me to share it with you here. 

Today...I wish you a day of ordinary miracles. 

A fresh pot of coffee you didn't have to make yourself.

An unexpected phone call from an old friend.

Green stoplights on your way to work or shop.

I wish you a day of little things to rejoice in…

The fastest line at the grocery store

A good sing-along song on the radio

Your keys right where you look

I wish you a day of happiness and perfection-little bite-size pieces of perfection that give you the funny feeling that the Lord is smiling on you, holding you so gently because you are someone special and rare.

I wish you a day of peace, happiness, and joy. 

I have no idea who wrote this, but I certainly like the sentiments and the truth it conveys.  Take time to enjoy life, especially the small blessings.  They come our way often, but sadly we are too busy or consumed with our own problems to notice or appreciate them.  If you are happy today and your life is in a good place and going in a positive direction, then stop and be thankful.  Laugh until it hurts, smile at those around you, and take time to fully appreciate all of life’s free blessings.  Those treasures will often come in the smallest and most plain packages. 

Enjoy the moment and be happy. 

It’s going to be a great day!

Looking Ahead to new Growth in the Coming Year

Nobody really cares if you're miserable, so you might as well be happy.  -Cynthia Nelms 

I am the kind of person that tends to think a little too much.  Someone who knew me in high school and who then caught up with me a few years ago via the Internet said that I always looked like a had  a lot on my mind.  That is a fair assessment.  I did then and I often do now.  That is why I have devoted a great deal of energy learning how to manage my emotions lest I become distracted to the point of becoming depressed and anxious all of the time.  Believe me when I say that there are strategies we can develop that will empower us to stop being anxious, depressed, moody, and cynical.  The challenge comes in developing these strategies and then putting them into practice. 

As we come to the end of the year I hope that you will see this as an occasion to reflect on what you have learned in the past year and then make some plans for personal growth in the year ahead.  Be careful not to give into feelings of discouragement over what didn’t get done this past year.  There are wonderful opportunities ahead to grow and move toward your goals and dreams.  Consider these strategies for personal growth and becoming a more positive person:

 

• Remember that you have the power to alter negative and destructive thought processes.  When you feel yourself slipping into a negative frame of mind, stop and take hold of the situation.  The only person forcing you to dwell on failures, problems, or disappointments is you.  Don’t try to completely block out the bad memory, but instead let it play out and then move on.  And I mean move on – to happier and brighter thoughts.  You are an individual of immeasurable worth and potential.  Never forget that. 

• Picture what you desire to accomplish in the coming year and then move toward it.  Be sure that your goals are realistic and attainable.  Have a plan as to how your goals will be accomplished.  If it’s exercise, start small and work your way up.  If it’s losing weight, chose a diet program and stick with it.   

• Begin to view problems as opportunities for personal growth.  Muscles don’t grow unless they are stretched.  The old saying about “no pain no gain” is true.  The same rule applies to growing in maturity and focus.  As we learn how to manage our emotions in times of stress and discouragement we build character and patience.   

• Be patient.  Becoming what God intends for us to be takes time – a lifetime, in fact.  Try not to rush it and learn to enjoy yourself along the way. 
  

So, what do you have planned for today?  Now is the time and today is the day.  Rise up and get going. 

It’s going to be a great day!

More Strategies for a Great Christmas

We never repent of having eaten too little.  -Thomas Jefferson  

We just returned from a family trip to Ohio and I have to say that it was a wonderful time.  In fact, I cannot recall when we have had a more relaxed and stress free trip than this one.  Part of the reason for me personally is that I resolved to simply enjoy being with family who I don’t get to see very often, and in the process not think about problems awaiting me back home.  I am glad to report that this strategy worked magnificently.  There are a few issues I had to face upon my return and I barely thought about them during this visit.  The result was a special and meaningful time with family. 

Another strategy I employed was a strict adherence to my daily exercise routine.  Each of the three mornings we were at my parent’s home I blocked out time in my schedule for my daily 30 minutes of calisthenics.  My folks were a little dubious of my plan to exercise outside on their patio in 20 degree weather, but I assured them that it would be fine as I had been exercising outside at home during two weeks of single digit weather.  I don’t recommend this to everyone, but for me this is invigorating and uplifting.  Remember my rule of consulting with your family doctor before beginning any exercise routine. 

My third strategy for our family visit in Ohio was to limit my portions of all that rich and wonderful food that was served to us about every hour.  We had a joke that if we became hungry we should eat as we probably hadn’t done so in at least two or three hours.  I admit that I struggled with keeping the portions sizes down, but I take comfort in knowing that this blessed season, with all this great food, is about to end for another year.  With all this in mind, consider these continued strategies for making this the best Christmas ever:

• Resolve that as soon as Christmas is over you will return to a normal and healthier diet.
  

• Keep up your exercise routine.  Do not allow all the other aspects of the Christmas season to deter you from this healthy endeavor.  The result will be a healthier, more relaxed, and better adjusted you. 

• Do not be distracted by difficult relatives.  We all have them.  As I have stated in previous blogs, resolve to be the bigger person.  Set an example of how a mature, well adjusted, and focused adult handles family conflicts. 

I love the Christmas season.  Make a conscious decision to make this the best Christmas ever. 

Merry Christmas! 

Continuing to Manage Christmas Related Stress

“And therefore, uncle, though it has never put a scrap of gold or silver in my pocket, I believe it has done me good, and will do me good; and I say, God bless it!”  -Scrooge’s nephew speaking of Christmas, “A Christmas Carol,” by Charles Dickens 

Something that invariably happens after Christmas is the trip to the store to make a return.  When I do a little after Christmas browsing I am always amazed at the people who will wait in line for hours trying to return some item.  Often we end up with something we don’t need, don’t, want, or it’s the wrong size.  Regardless, that wait at the return line can be frustrating.  And we thought that the Christmas stress was all behind us. 

Rather than return your item right after Christmas, why not be patient and wait a week or two?  By then the lines will have died down and your trip to the dreaded return department will be a little less stressful.  Better yet, do what I do; if the store you are returning your item to is open late, try returning or exchanging the item late in the evening.  Would you be surprised to find out that I have exchanged items at the store at midnight or later?  That sounds crazy, I know, but it was worth not having to wait in those long lines. 

Here are a few easy tips for managing Christmas related stress:

• Take time to relax.  If you still have some shopping to do, work into your schedule a little stop at the coffee shop.  Nothing says “relax” like a hot cup of coffee and a fat free muffin.  You will then return to your shopping more relaxed, less stressed, and ready to handle those frantic shoppers who haven’t had their coffee break. 

• Watch a Christmas classic with your family. Schedule an evening and watch one of these Christmas favorites, all which are available on DVD: “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “A Christmas Story,” “Miracle on 34^th Street,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” or “A Christmas Carol (my favorite is the version starring George C. Scott as Scrooge).”
  

• Get out and do something you have never done before.  Attend a local Christmas parade, bundle up and go for a walk in the park on a freezing snowy day, or organize a group of friends and family and go Christmas caroling at a local nursing home or hospital. 

• Reach out, connect, and get involved with the community.  A number of churches and organizations in my area serve Christmas dinner every Christmas Day to anyone who wants to come in and enjoy a free meal.  Wherever you live, I am certain there is a similar outreach in your community.  Consider volunteering your time.  You will be blessed and you will come away from the experience with a wonderful feeling of having performed a kindness to your fellow man. 

Do not allow yourself to be overcome with the stress of the Christmas season.  Resolve to enjoy it and to bless those around you. 

It’s going to be a great Christmas!

More Tips on Diet and Exercise

The word aerobics came about when the gym instructors got together and said, "If we're going to charge $10 an hour, we can't call it jumping up and down."  -Rita Rudner 

As I have said in previous blog posts, I occasionally have conversations with people about diet and exercise and they will admit that they don’t get enough of either.  For many this does not involve simply not getting enough exercise, but rather they are not exercising at all.  There is a difference between being active and getting proper exercise.  Many of my colleagues in ministry will admit to rarely if ever engaging in any form of cardiovascular exercise.  Combine this with being overweight, overworked, and stressed out and you have a dangerous health situation.  A little over a year ago I began a daily workout routine and I can honestly say that it has made wonderful difference in my outlook and my overall health.  As I have previously stated, if I can do it, so can you. 

Consider these strategies for getting in shape and engaging in a form of exercise:

• Try walking every day with a friend.  Many years ago my wife Andrea decided that she needed a form of exercise.  Through a conversation with an acquaintance she discovered that this person enjoys walking.  Andrea began walking with her and sometimes another lady, and she has kept this up for about ten years.  Before her cancer diagnosis and subsequent surgery she was walking as much as five miles a day, five mornings a week.  It is going to take a while to get back to that pace, but I have no doubt she will.  She has also developed enriching friendships with her fellow walkers. 

• Take a careful look at your eating, and drinking, habits.  I know a young man who struggled with his weight throughout his teenage years.  He began a strict diet, and over a period of a year and a half went from 225 pounds down to 170.  Did he have a secret diet plan?  Not really; he simply cut out all soft drinks and sweets from his diet, started eating more vegetables, and began a regimented exercise program involving calisthenics and running.  No fad diets, no expensive workout equipment, but rather he adjusted his eating habits and began exercising 

• Start off small and work your way up.  Don’t go out today and try to walk or jog five miles.  Start with walking a small distance and then increase this over time.  Personally, I am not a fan of jogging as this creates tremendous stress on the knees and ankles.  A brisk walk will provide the same benefits without the stress on knees and ankles. 
  

• Make your exercise routine fun.  Whatever form of exercise you are doing be sure to have fun with it.  Play tennis, ride a bike, take up handball, or just go for a brisk walk every day. 

As with any exercise program, be sure to talk with your doctor first. 

It’s going to be a great day!

More Thoughts on Having a Positive Attitude

If your ship doesn't come in, swim out to it.  -Jonathan Winters  

People who possess skill and talent, but lack a positive attitude will have trouble using their skills to the fullest potential.  It’s not always the best player on the team or the most knowledgeable person on the staff that gets the promotion, but often it’s the person with the best attitude.  An upbeat and positive attitude will take us farther than we would have ever believed possible.  On the other hand, a terrible attitude will hold us back and ever stand in the way of personal growth, healthy relationships, and opportunities.   

With each passing year I come to better realize the importance of obtaining and maintaining a vibrant and positive attitude.  You want to know something?  I have a long way to go.  I have to daily discipline myself to keep a good attitude and not surrender to negativity, bitterness, and cynicism.  Keeping a positive attitude is hard work; it must be practiced every day.  Our attitude affects how we tackle problems, accomplish goals, and relate to those around us.  Attitude can mean the difference between facing a problem with maturity and strength and falling apart.

How is your attitude these days?  Do you push away people and opportunities that might otherwise enrich your life?  If so, an adjustment in attitude is in order.  Consider these strategies for gaining and keeping a better and brighter attitude:

• Resolve to stop being critical.  Anytime we speak ill of other people we open ourselves up to a host of bitter feelings and angry thoughts.  Countless people have made careers out of criticizing just about everything.  They are critical of their friends, spouses, churches, towns, neighbors, and the food served at restaurants.  Are you acquainted with such a person?  Here is a crucial question: is this person happy?  The answer is, probably not.  I have never met a critical person who was genuinely happy.   

• Learn to roll with the punches.  Life is hard and may get harder.  What will we do in response?  Will we lie down and give up?  A positive attitude empowers us to see past our problems to a brighter day that may be just around the corner.  Keep moving forward as that brighter day can be right now. 

• Get up, get out, and get going.  Stop sitting and moping around all of the time.  Six years ago if you had told me that I would be writing a blog about strategies for overcoming depression and the blues I would probably not have believed it.  If I can overcome depression and learn to successfully manage it, then I believe you can too.  Don’t give up – ever.  

•  Picture in your mind a brighter, happier, and more upbeat you, and then become that person.    

Don’t try climb the mountain today, but take it one step at a time.  If you have a bad attitude you didn’t develop it overnight.  You won’t change it over night either.   

Get started today improving your attitude.  You will feel better and your problems will become smaller. 

It’s going to be a great day!

More Thoughts on Overcoming Depression, Sorrow, and the Blues

I like living. I have sometimes been wildly, despairingly, acutely miserable, racked with sorrow, but through it all I still know that just to be alive is a grand thing.  -Agatha Christie 

Of all the emotions that run through our minds and consciousness each day it’s happiness that can often be the most elusive.  Other emotions will come upon us in abundance, such as sorrow, anger, bitterness, and fear.  If we could be happy as much as we experience these negative feelings we would be in great shape.  However, finding happiness every day in the midst of our problems can be a challenge.  Can we make a choice to be happy each day?  I believe the answer to that question is yes.  The difficult part of this comes in learning the strategies for making that a reality.   

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported in a 2005-2006 study that more than 1 in 20 Americans ages 12 years and older had current depression.  They further stated that depression is a treatable condition, but the majority of persons with depression did not receive even minimally adequate treatment.¹  If you have found yourself suffering from depression, sorrow, the blues, or you just aren’t as happy as you would like to be, please know that there is hope. 

Talk to your doctor, pastor, or see a therapist.  Do not continue suffering in silence, but instead rise up and seek the peace of mind that can be yours.  Consider these strategies for overcoming depression or the blues:

• Stop berating yourself. When we are down we tend to think bleak and negative thoughts.  No matter what you have been through or what you are facing, there are brighter days ahead.  Do not give up and do not surrender.  We have all made mistakes; leave them in the past and stop beating yourself up over them. 

• Do not give in to the myth that your depression or feelings of sorrow are your fault.  Depression can occur as the result of a chemical imbalance, a major life change, or a crisis that has taken place.  Talk with your doctor and explore treatment options.  This is not your fault; stop blaming yourself and instead seek treatment.
  

• Do not give into the myth that people will think you are an oddball if you admit to suffering from depression.  One of the reasons people suffer in silence is they are afraid to admit they are depressed.  Pastors often view admitting to depression as a ministerial career killer.  This is not the case.  In 2006 when God helped me to climb out of my six year battle with depression, I began to talk openly about it and even wrote a book about my experience (“The Invitation: Embracing a Happier Life” can be ordered from the link in this blog).  People frequently tell me that the book has given them hope to keep fighting the battle against depression. 

There is hope, my friend.  Do not give up.  There is light at the end of whatever dark tunnel you have found yourself in.   

 

Keep going; life is worth the living.

1 http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db07.htm

More Tips on Handling Holiday Stress

What do you call people who are afraid of Santa Claus? Claustrophobic.  -Anonymous 

I have a Facebook account, but I only check it a couple of times a week.  I also limit my posts to quotes by famous people and the various activities involving the squirrels in my yard.  A post that caught my attention last week was a question as to how to handle holiday stress.  Of course, I suggested reading my blog.  My hope is that these suggestions will be taken to heart and will encourage people to be happier, healthier, more optimistic, and less stressed out.  I realize that this time of year that’s a tall order.  It seems as though the Christmas season is tailor-made for inducing stress. 

Part of the reason we feel stressed during this otherwise festive season is that we go to parties we would rather not attend, eat food we ought to avoid, and spend money we don’t have.  All those combined make for a stress-filled Christmas that leaves us glad when it’s all over.  Honestly, shouldn’t we be enjoying ourselves during Christmas as opposed to feeling like we are overwhelmed?  Yes, we should be. The problem is we simply lack the strategies for making that hope a reality.  Consider these additional strategies for feeling less stressed during the Christmas season:

• Learn to truly enjoy putting up Christmas decorations. Here we are at the tenth day of December and many people are yet to put up their decorations.  It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate.  All you need is a humble tree and Christmas lights and you will be amazed at how festive your home becomes.  One of my favorite parts of Christmas is getting up early and having my morning coffee with just the lights from the Christmas tree illuminating the room.  Those quiet moments help me to keep everything about Christmas in proper perspective.     

• Play happy Christmas music all throughout the house.  Every year our supply of Christmas CD’s grows.  That’s because we buy them in January when the stores are practically giving them away.  Play that music and get in the Christmas spirit. 

• Take time for yourself.  Last week I was feeling fairly stressed out like I always do this time of year, so rather than sit around letting it all get to me I decided to get proactive.  My solution was simple; I took Ada to the park and we went for a long walk.  The weather was freezing, but Ada loved it and I have to say that the cold air was invigorating.  I came back from that walk in the park energized and ready once again to plunge head-long into the Christmas festivities.  You may not be able to take a cold weather hike, but surely you can find something that’s just for you.   

• Take a deep breath, slow down, and relax.  In a few short weeks Christmas 2010 will be only a memory.  Resolve to enjoy it while it’s here.
  

It’s going to be a great Christmas!  

Letting Others Have the Glory

A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small bundle.  -Benjamin Franklin 

Have you ever found yourself in a conversation with someone who always seems to try and top your story?  What I mean is that whatever you are talking about, this person has already done it and did it better than you.  If you say that you went to the Grand Canyon last year he will quickly say that he has been there as well, five times, in fact, and is planning on going there next year.  Those situations leave us feeling what may be described as bested.  I know what that feels like, for this happens to me from time to time.  I recall how that last summer I was telling someone about my car and how that it has 165,000 miles on it.  Without hesitation this fellow stated that the car he drives every day has 250,000 miles.   

Then there was the gentleman I was chatting with one evening at a high school football game and somehow the subject of popular singers came up.  I happened to mention that as a teenager I had seen the singer Jimmy Buffet in concert.  The man spoke up and told me that he had seen Mr. Buffet in concert thirty-five times.  That sort of makes me want to wave a white flag of surrender and walk away – quickly. 

The question of why we sometimes want to top other peoples’ stories merits consideration.  Perhaps it stems from our own insecurities, or maybe it is a need to be recognized, but understand that it interferes with communication, relationships, and well-being.  Consider these strategies for better communication and well-being:

• Let others have the glory.  The next time someone is telling a story, resist the urge to top it.  Yes, you have been to the Florida Keys too.  That’s fantastic!  Let your friend bask in the glow of telling about her recent trip there. 
  

• Develop and practice good listening skills.  When someone is talking, stop planning what you are going to say next, such as how that you also have hiked up Pike’s Peak.  Instead, relax and concentrate on what the person is saying.  The conversation will go smoother and your friend will appreciate your attentiveness.   

• Even if you have already heard the joke, let the other person tell it.  Nothing is more deflating than to start into a funny story only to be interrupted with, “Oh, yeah, I’ve already heard that one.” People have told me jokes which I have heard many times.  My response is to listen as if hearing it for the first time, and then laugh along with them.  Isn’t that better than cutting them off and stealing their enjoyment?  After all, the true joy is in the telling. 
  

• Avoid trying to be the center of attention or “the life of the party.”  That’s way too much responsibility.  Relax and just be you.   

Somewhere today there is someone who could use some kindness, compassion, and attention.  You may well be the one to provide it.   

It’s going to be a great day!  

You Don’t Have to Spend a Fortune to get in Shape

Physical fitness can neither be achieved by wishful thinking nor outright purchase.  -Joseph Pilates 

Just this past week I saw four infomercials for workouts in DVD format and a couple of more promoting certain types of exercise machines.  In case you’re wondering, I didn’t watch every infomercial, but just enough to get the gist of them.  I just did a Google search for exercise DVD’s and got over eight milling hits.  I did another search for exercise equipment and came up with over 29 million hits.  As you can see, selling exercise DVD’s and any gadget that is supposed to help us get into shape is big business. 

To be fair, I am sure that some of these are legitimate and if properly used will render a favorable result.  For a while there I seriously wanted to buy a Boflex, and then I saw the price.  This looks like a great piece of workout equipment, but be prepared to pony up some serious cash.  The same can be said for the Total Gym, which is endorsed by the legendary Chuck Norris.  Again, this looks like a tremendous way to do strength training at home, but be prepared to spend several hundred dollars.  As a side note, I wish Chuck would give up the hairpiece.  I always thought he looked a lot better in the cowboy hat he wore on “Walker Texas Ranger.”

My main point today is to remind you that you do not have to go out and spent a lot of money to improve your health.  There are some strategies anyone can employ right now that will be the beginning of overall improved health and a more positive outlook.  I have come to believe that the two areas are strongly connected.  Consider these strategies for improving your health without having to spend a small fortune:

• Be physically active as much as possible.  If you have a desk job, bring gym shoes to work and take a brisk walk after lunch.  When possible, and you can do so safely, take the stairs at your office building.  Anytime I make a hospital visit I deliberately park as far from the doors as possible.  The longer walk into the building is energizing. 
  

• Schedule a time of exercise as a vital part of your day.  Cease from thinking of exercising as a burden that has to be worked into your day.  Instead, learn to view it the same as you would eating a healthy meal; it’s something done out of necessity for maintaining better health.
  

• Get the family involved.  If you are married or have kids at home, encourage your spouse and kids to seek a regular form of exercise also.  Don’t nag them, but rather gently urge them while setting a positive example. 
  

• Eat right and quit smoking.  I know that I beat on these two issues like a Congo drum, but it’s that important.  No exercise program will be effective if you are still smoking cigarettes and eating all sorts of junk food.   

With God’s help anyone can make exercise a wonderful part of a daily routine.  Rise up, get moving, and resolve to get healthy. 

It’s going to be a great day!

More Strategies for Maintaining Better Health

A man too busy to take care of his health is like a mechanic too busy to take care of his tools.  -Spanish Proverb 

I hate to bring this up so early into the Christmas season, but how are you doing with your diet and eating habits?  The Christmas get-togethers are about to be begin, and the time to for taking a firm and controlled stand is now.  This approach is far superior to waiting until January when a weight gain of several pounds has occurred.  Along with this comes that bloated and terrible feeling of having eaten way too much.  My sister and I have a joke about how that if you break apart a large chocolate chip cookie and then eat it in smaller pieces that it has no calories or sugar.  Oh, if only that were so. 

Here is a simple truth that merits further consideration: When we eat junk we are going to feel lousy.  That should not be difficult to comprehend.  However, I have conversations with people about diet and they readily admit to poor eating habits.  Countless people are eating jelly doughnuts and Mountain Dew for breakfast (if they eat breakfast at all), which is followed by lunch consisting of fast food hamburgers, French fries, and soda.  Later that day, suppertime is a free-for-all of perhaps more fast food, frozen pizza, potato chips, cookies, and more soda.  As an additional bonus to such horribly unhealthy eating habits is a pack-a-day smoking habit.  And people wonder why they are so lethargic and feel so rotten all of the time. 

If any of this describes you, then a complete change in eating habits is in order.  Consider the following strategies for a more healthy approach to eating:

• Get rid of all sugar from your diet.  This is a simple and uncomplicated strategy; if it has sugar in it, then don’t eat it.   

• Rid yourself of all fast food.  Fast food chains are some of the worst offenders when it comes to food that is as unhealthy as we can eat.  Thick-burgers, pizza-burgers, deep-fried chicken smothered in blue cheese dressing burgers, and orders of French fries large enough to fill a bucket are absolute heart-clogging monstrosities.  Try packing your own lunch when you go to work.  Not only will you save money, but you will most likely eat healthier as well.  A sandwich, a piece of fruit, and a granola bar are undoubtedly healthier than anything you’ll get at a fast food place. 

• Try adding plenty of fruit and green leafy vegetables to your diet. 
  

• Try eating your evening meal at home more often rather than eating out.  Again, you’ll save money and probably eat healthier.
  

• For an afternoon or evening snack try fruits, raisins, and nuts. 
  

• Be sure to always stay hydrated.  Recent studies have shown that by the time we feel thirsty we may already be de-hydrated.   

Start eating healthier and you will feel better.  The time for taking back control of your eating habits is now. The choice is yours. 

It’s going to be a great day!

Getting Going on Dreary Days

Act as if what you do makes a difference.  It does.  -William James 

Let me tell you a story about dark, cloudy, rainy days, stress, problems, and fatigue from a sleepless night.  Someone close to me was going through a bad time and that lay heavy on my mind the other night.  After falling asleep around 1:00 AM, I awoke around 5:30 unable to go back to sleep.  “Four and a half hours will have to do,” I thought, as a made my way to the coffee pot.  An hour or so later as the first light of day began to appear in the eastern sky I was greeted with leaden skies, clouds, and the possibility of rain.  I knew then that it was time to put into practice pretty much everything I have learned about managing depression, sorrow, and the blues.   

By 7:30 that morning I was in my favorite chair, my Bible open, and reading some passages that always bring encouragement.  Following this was a time of prayer for God’s grace, strength, and power to override the overwhelming negativity that was hovering over me.  Following this was 30 minutes of calisthenics, a good breakfast, put on a suit and tie, and head for the office. 

Please don’t think I am bragging here.  What I am trying to get across is that there are strategies we can adopt to manage depression, sorrow, and the blues.  I am thankful every day that God has given me the strength and insight to learn how to manage my emotions especially in those times when I might otherwise have become discouraged.  If I can do this, then you can as well.  Consider these strategies for moving forward on those days when the blues try to settle in:

• Look past the dark clouds and know that there is sunshine behind them.  I know that sounds cheesy, but it works.  On days that are dark and cloudy our emotional state can be dark as well.  Resolve to rise above the negative that is trying to hold you down. 

• Make a list of goals for that day, or a simple “to-do list.”  On days where the heaviness of the blues is setting in, a positive response is to see the day as a series of short-term goals to be met.  Nothing fancy, folks; 7:00 AM, shower and dressed; 7:30, breakfast; 8:30, arrive at office; 9:00 AM, staff meeting.  You get the idea.  After each item on the list is done, draw a check-mark through it.  At the end of the day look back at your list of completed tasks and bask in the glow of a productive day.   
• Don’t give in to negative thoughts.  When the pessimistic thoughts creep into your mind, resolve to overcome them with positive.  Sing a happy song, quote a Bible verse, or recall a funny story.  Keep the bad thoughts at bay and get moving.  

Do not allow negativity to get a foothold in your heart, attitude, or thought processes.

It’s going to be a great day!