Staying Positive in a Negative World
Years ago when I lived in Tulsa, I walked out of the grocery store, minding my own business, when a TV reporter swooped in with a microphone and a cameraman in tow. Before I could say “no comment,” she was asking what I thought about all the new traffic in our area.
Now, I hadn’t exactly freshened my lipstick (because, of course, the one day you don’t is the day you end up on the evening news). Still, I figured if they were looking for a “negative traffic drama” soundbite, they picked the wrong gal.
Yes, the traffic had increased. But along with it came shiny new shopping centers, more restaurants than I could ever visit, and enough conveniences to make life easy. Plus, our home values shot up — mine doubled before I sold and moved to Frisco, Texas!
So when the 10 p.m. news aired, there I was, smiling and positive, to the delight of my grandkids who were bouncing on the couch yelling, “Nana’s on TV!”
Here’s the thing: negativity breeds negativity. If you want to stay positive in a negative world, you’ve got to be intentional. Here’s what works for me:
1. Limit exposure to negativity.
That means news, social media rants, and yes, even people who treat gloom like a full-time job.
2. Guard your inner circle.
I counsel people often and hear tough stories — but I also protect my own mindset by balancing my time with those who bring joy, hope, and laughter.
3. Fill the air with praise.
Uplifting Christian music transforms my home, my car, and even my mood. One worship song can reroute my whole attitude.
4. Practice gratitude.
Thank God for green lights, short lines, and parking spaces near the door. Gratitude has a way of turning ordinary moments into joy-filled ones.
5. Pray in the pauses.
Traffic jams and checkout lines become little appointments with God — the One who is never surprised by delays.
Philippians 4:8 tells us to fix our thoughts on what’s true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. And I’ve found that when I focus there, I don’t just survive in a negative world — I shine in it.
After all, the world has enough doom and gloom. Why not be the reason someone else smiles?