I've seen post after post about people giving up negativity for Lent. Claiming you want to is the first step, but once you're in, how exactly do you do it?
Here are 5 ways to avoid negativity.
- Be slow to speak: Think about the words you will say after someone is done talking. Our first words often aren't our best. Once we've adopted a negative lifestyle, almost 100% of what we say is a negative, cynical comment. A little thinking allows wisdom to prevail.
- Be quick to listen: Not just as an exercise, but real, active listening. Maybe ask a question about what you just heard, nod your head at the appropriate time or ask the speaker to expound on their subject.
- Drop the need to be right: A know-it-all comes across negatively. How often do you find yourself saying, " I just love Susie. She knows everything and enthralls us moment by moment with her fascinating facts and opinions on everything, even stuff she knows absolutely nothing about."?
- Practice: Listen to the news, radio or podcasts without forming thoughts and opinions until after the speaker is finished speaking.
- Believe: Know that you can choose to be positive. Know that you're giving a positively wonderful gift to others!
What do you need to work on most?
Pardon me while I go lick my wounds...
LOL
Seriously, Audra--awesome. I think I'm definitely needing more work on the being slow to speak bit as of late.
Posted by: Tammy | Tuesday, March 08, 2011 at 01:45 PM
You are so funny Tammy. I'll be the judge of that when we meet in person! Ha ha
Audra
Posted by: Audra Krell | Tuesday, March 08, 2011 at 02:30 PM
Great post Audra...I especially like the comments that we can choose to be positive and allowing a little thinking time so that wisdom can prevail. Good advice.
I know I mentioned awhile ago that we have a huge Arts & Crafts Fair here in Leisure World (Mesa) from 9-3pm this Sat. You asked me to remind you as the date drew closer. I would love to meet you in person but...I know we all have busy schedules. There's no need to reply, unless you need more info. Take care. Blessings D :)
Posted by: Dolores Ayotte | Tuesday, March 08, 2011 at 03:50 PM
Audra,
This is just so wonderful...as we start Lent...and always. We choose our actions...
Peace,
Lance
Posted by: Lance | Wednesday, March 09, 2011 at 06:22 AM
Audra,
These are great steps. I need to adhere them.
Posted by: Ginger | Wednesday, March 09, 2011 at 06:53 AM
Thanks Lance, I knew this one would be right up your alley, my positive friend!
Audra
Posted by: Audra Krell | Wednesday, March 09, 2011 at 07:10 AM
Hi Ginger! Wishing you a blessed Lenten season!
Audra
Posted by: Audra Krell | Wednesday, March 09, 2011 at 07:11 AM
LOL on #3--so true! What I need to work on is to not worry all the time. So much is great in my life right now and I'm trying to concentrate on that--accentuate the positive, as the old song goes.
Katherine is getting married next November (2012). She's got her venue picked out but that's about it. We're moving slowly, but I have a feeling things are going to speed up by the beginning of next year! Thanks for stopping by my new blog. I hope you head over again soon!
Posted by: mom2fur (aka Clare) | Wednesday, March 09, 2011 at 03:45 PM
So exciting about Katherine!!! Yes, things will probably start to go pretty fast. Blessings for continued wonderful things in your life!
Posted by: Audra Krell | Thursday, March 10, 2011 at 10:54 AM
Hi Dolores, I'm so glad you let me know about the craft fair! We have sports commitments this Saturday, but if anything changes I will let you know as I would love to meet you too.
Audra
Posted by: Audra Krell | Thursday, March 10, 2011 at 12:30 PM
I really struggle with being negative at times.
I usually quantify it as I am trying to point out the things that can be worked on, but a lot of the times it just makes me fell better to vent. That is a pretty lame excuse.
I think if I can really work on the first two things you mentioned that would be a huge first step.
Posted by: Kyle Reed | Thursday, March 10, 2011 at 03:28 PM
I don't think that's a lame excuse. We all need to get things out, maybe we can think of a new way to vent. Thanks for stopping over Kyle!
Posted by: Audra Krell | Thursday, March 10, 2011 at 09:27 PM
I like your #5. So much of how we feel can be our choice. It so often hinges on our perspective, and how we choose to look at situations, and experiences :)
Posted by: Joanne | Sunday, March 13, 2011 at 06:32 PM
Hi Audra,
I very much liked the content of this post. I have shared it with my readers today. D :)
Posted by: Dolores Ayotte | Wednesday, March 16, 2011 at 09:19 AM
Thank you Dolores! I always appreciate you sharing my writing, you are a blessing!
Audra
Posted by: Audra Krell | Wednesday, March 16, 2011 at 11:09 AM