I’ve heard it over and over this year.  “Ugh!  This weather has got me down!” Winter can take a toll on a person’s mood, which is the basis from which the rest of our thoughts and emotions emerge.  People can experience general negative thoughts and feelings or even suffer with Seasonal Affective Disorder during winter.  But, have no fear; spring is here!  Or at least it’s near.

Reducing negativity:

• Is it me?  A nice long look in the mirror is always a good place to start when looking for a change.  Try to evaluate your personal tendency toward pessimism.  If you find you are the main source of negativity in your life- great!  This is good news because you are the one in charge of your thoughts.  Identify a few and work on changing them, in other words, alter your interpretation of the situation.  You can always find a more positive truth.  Make it your new mantra.  This is really tough so seek help if you are struggling with this change.

• Stimulus overload?  How much time do you spend watching the news, listening to music, or perusing social media?  More importantly, monitor which of these influences is having a negative impact on you and curb your media addiction.  Conversely, seek out positive media sources such as uplifting music, inspiring books, blogs, or comedy.

• Is it someone else?  It is possible that someone around you, a family member, friend, or coworker is impacting your mood with their negativity?  Evaluate the amount of time you spend with that person and set boundaries if needed.  Avoid subjects that lend themselves to the negative conversation.  Make it your mission to “make their day.”  Do something cheerful or surprising for them.  You will both benefit from creating positivity.  Above all else, avoid engaging in gossip.  There is nothing quite as useless or detrimental to you personally or to an organization.  

• Take action.  Reducing negativity can be effective even with small changes, and show up in your overall well-being.  A sedentary lifestyle versus fitness, too much or too little socialization, poor nutrition versus healthy eating habits, and spirituality are all good areas to check in on when you want to promote positivity.