Be G.R.E.A.T.

I found a great article today that give some simple and practical tips to enjoying our lives and being happy no matter what circumstance we may be facing today. I’m passing this on article from http://www.reviveyourlife.com/ in hopes that it might inspire you to be happy and live a G.R.E.A.T. day!  :)

How Can You Be Happy in these Hard Times? Be GREAT!
By Elizabeth Lombardo, Ph.D., M.S., P.T.,
Whether I am doing a radio interview, giving a speech to a group of hundreds, or working with an individual client, there is one common theme that initially prevails: skepticism.

“How can I be happy when I (drum roll please)…lost my job…have no money…got a divorce…am not married…am married…moved to a new town where I know no one…am sick…am overweight…feel stuck?"

You get the idea. I teach those that I’m speaking to that it doesn’t matter. Regardless of what is going on in your life, you can make it better, and it won’t cost you a thing. All you have to do is be GREAT!

G - Gratitude
R - Relaxation
E - Exercise
A - Assist others
T - Talk it out


Gratitude: Be grateful for what you have, not upset about what you lack

We have a tendency to scan our environment and focus on what’s bad, what “should” be better, and what needs to be “fixed.” It may be a partner’s behavior, a friend’s choice in clothing, or your waistline. But when was the last time you focused on the positive elements in your life?

Try this - develop a gratitude journal. It may sound corny, but I assure you it will enhance your happiness exponentially. Every day (yes, even on the not-so-great days), write about three things that you appreciate and feel grateful for. These could be specific events, or just wonderful things that happen regularly.
Some examples might include:

■A good night’s sleep
■A workout where you really pushed yourself
■Spending time with a good friend
■Being productive
■Your spouse doing the dishes
■Hearing a child giggle
■Having a good meal
■Getting to work/home on time
■A good cup of coffee in the morning
■Having the support of family and friends

Over time you’ll develop a list of all the brilliant experiences and people you have in your life right now.
Sound a little too “peace-love-granola-y” to you? What if you suddenly lost your ability to move? What would you pine for most? After sustaining his spinal cord injury, Christopher Reeve said what he missed most was, “to be able to put my arms around my son.” Consider if you were in his position - what would you long to do? Now, start being grateful that you can still enjoy those experiences.

Relaxation: Decrease stress and relaaaax


The word relaxation conjures up different images for different people. Some might visualize sitting on the beach with a cool drink and good book, while others might imagine going for an exhilarating jog. Regardless of your definition, relaxation can have amazing benefits as it relates to your level of happiness.
Relaxing doesn’t require you to sit in an uncomfortable, cross-legged position and repeatedly chant “ohm,” either. True relaxation, in which you flush the stress out of your body and mind, is just a simple way of being happier.

Try any of the following:
■Engage in deep breathing
■Perform progressive muscle relaxation exercises
■Meditate
■Visualize your way to relaxation
■Get a massage
■Practice yoga

Exercise: Exercise your way to happiness

We are all familiar with at least some of the benefits of exercise to our physical health which include weight loss, decreased blood pressure, improved “good” cholesterol, enhanced cardiovascular function, and the prevention of certain chronic illnesses. As the 17th Earl of Derby once said, “Those who think they have no time for bodily exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness.”

Did you know, though, that exercise is also good for your psychological health? Evidence shows that exercise:

■Raises mood-enhancing neurotransmitters in the brain
■Enhances positive attitudes
■Releases muscle tension
■Promotes better sleep
■Has a calming effect
■Lessens anxiety and depression
So get moving, and make it fun - go for a walk with your dog, bounce on a trampoline, go dancing, or run through the sprinklers…


Assist others: Helping out others will increase your own happiness

When you help someone, you not only help the individual receiving the aid, but also yourself. Performing kind acts for others is one of the most satisfying and gratifying things you can do with your time. It helps alter your focus from “what is wrong with my life” to more positive thoughts like “I don’t have it as bad as she does” and “I am really making a difference.” Look for opportunities throughout the day to help others which may include:

■Holding a door for someone
■Smiling…at anyone
■Complimenting your spouse, a friend, or a co-worker
■Thanking people who assist you, even if doing so is their “job” (a cashier, your mother, etc.)
■Finding volunteer opportunities that interest you and jumping right in. There are countless groups, organizations and opportunities where your strengths can be used to help others in need. The benefits to them - and you - will be amazing!


Talk it out: Use effective communication

Ineffective communication, such as being passive (stuffing your thoughts and emotions) or aggressive (not respecting others while voicing your opinion) can cause a lot of heartache. In fact, this is the number one cause for divorce and other failed relationships.
■Try being assertive, where you share what is on your mind in a considerate and respectful manner.
■Release unhelpful assumptions such as “he should know that upsets me”. No one can read your mind regardless of how long you have known them.
■Ask questions and really listen. Don’t just let the person talk so that you have an opportunity to say something. Be interested in what people around you are thinking - you will be able to communicate much better if you do.