Each of us has an impact on the way we – and others – view the world, whether it is positively or negatively, both personal and professionally. If you’re one of the many people who are currently living a life of positivity, then you probably know how hard it can be, especially in a world full of Negative Nancy’s!
The key to positivity is to always look for ways to better your day, your situation, and your world. It takes grace and humility: grace to offer a helping hand to those in need and humility to act without selfish ambition.
To get to this positive place – there is one simple thing you can commit to: leave everything better than you found it. It doesn’t matter how large or small the act is; the only thing that matters is that you’re doing something.
- On your way to work
- Let someone cut in a long line of traffic
- Pay it forward in the drive-thru line
- At work
- Pick up a piece of litter and put it in the trash
- Refill the coffee pot or add paper to the copier
- At lunch or dinner
- Sincerely thank the person serving you
- Don’t leave a huge mess at your table
- Anytime
- Smile at a stranger
- Commit a random act of kindness
- Consistently say “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me,” and never let your mood negatively affect your manners.
As Helen Keller once said: “I am only one, but I still am one. I cannot do everything, but still, I can do something; and because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do something that I can do.”
So, as you go about your day, pause to consider; “Am I adding value to this relationship, home, business, or environment] or am I only taking value away from it?” The answer will help you determine if you’re leaving it better than you found it.