Everywhere you turn negativity pops up—news, social media, gossip columns, workplace water coolers, talk radio, even the family dinner table. If you’re not on guard, that negativity will color the way you look at your life, work, family and home. Now is the time to follow the words written by the Apostle Paul: “Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise” (Philippians 4:8). And to help you on your journey, here are five keys to help you stay positive in a hostile world.
1. Stay Positive by Avoiding Negativity Hot Spots
You control what you take into your mind, so avoid those places or things that feed you hostility, negativity and fear. Turn off the news and talk radio. Get off social media. Avoid celebrity magazines and gossip internet sites.
2. Stay Positive by Feeding Your Mind
Put positive teaching into your mind by listening to Spirit-led ministers and positive music. Also, consider learning something new—take up a new hobby, read about a new interest, or learn a new skill.
3. Stay Positive by Remaining Thankful
Make it a habit to thank God daily for something in your life. You may even choose to make this a dinnertime conversation, allowing each family member to list something good about his or her day.
4. Stay Positive by Walking Away From Workplace Gossip
No workplace is perfect, but if you constantly hear and feed on the gossip in your office, you’ll soon detest your job. Make the decision to speak positively about your workplace, and pray for your leaders.
5. Stay Positive by Encouraging Positive Relationships
The people you spend time with will affect how you think. Find Spirit-led friends who are positive and encouraging. If you don’t know any in your hometown, visit KCM’s Partner Community where you will find like-minded believers who share your interests.
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