Stress Less in 2009

by Michelle Howard Smith (all rights reserved)

The ending of an old year, bringing in a new year brings in new experiences, new opportunities, many things new.........and that includes new problems and new opportunities to stress.  How you deal with your "new stuff" is what will determine your outlook on your future.  Have you ever heard the saying, "Some look at a glass half empty and some look at it half full?"  Well, that's exactly what I'm talking about.  Life has a funny way of throwing curve balls at you.  No doubt, in 2009 there will be times of triumph and victory and times of sorrow.  That's just the way life is. Life is composed of seasons.  I can honestly say that I feel that 2008 was better than 2007.  Or is it that I've chosen to look at my experiences differently? Well let's see. My son was in the hospital in 2007 a few times for seizures.  In 2008 he had to have surgery.  I got married in 2007.  In 2008 we had some serious fights.  I had more money to shop with in 2007.  In 2008 I had more debt than I've ever had before.  No, I don't think that 2008 was necessarily better. It certainly felt better. I believe it appeared this way because I chose to look at things differently.

Most  people make New Year's resolutions and more than half of those people break them before February rolls around.  Personally, I've decided not to make any New Year's resolutions.  Instead, I've decided to change my outlook on life as a whole and to take things one day at a time.  I'd love to lose some weight. I'd also love to spend more time with my children. Making a New Year's resolution won't do a bit of good without a "roadmap" to accomplish these things.  Do you know, it's been scientifically proven that coming up with a plan and writing things down can help you achieve your goals?  

Recognize that you really can't control everything that goes on in your life, except what comes out of your mouth.  Many times, the mishaps that befall us are the results of what we are speaking.  You've heard people say things like, "I'm broke.", "I'm sick of this.", "You get on my nerves." and on and on.  No wonder people are having financial difficulties and illnesses.  I'm not saying that you should deny your circumstances but what good does it do (other than reinforce your situation), to rehearse your circumstances with your mouth?  In 2009, why not try saying things like: "I'm beautiful.", "I'm wealthy.", "I'm going to have a great year!"  These are positive reinforcements that are sure to help you stress less! Words are "things" you can do in the natural realm to help map out a brighter future.

Even if your life isn't that rosey right now, think of all the good times you've had.  Surely, there must be something good you can dwell on? The very fact that you can read this writing means you have been blessed with eye sight.  Some people can't see.  If you have your health, that's certainly a positive thing.  Oh and here's one that most will love: The gas prices are back to what they were in 2006!  I certainly love this one.  If gas prices rise in 2009, what can you do about it?  Nothing.   So let's not complain.  Let's look at 2009 as a year of opportunity to do just one thing if nothing else.....Be grateful - Grateful that you are alive.  Grateful that you have the money to pay for gas. Grateful that you are still employed and if you are not, then Grateful that you have legs and arms that function so you can go look for a job.  Think about all the years that you were employed and be grateful for those.  I truly believe that God honors gratefulness and will reward it with fruitfulness.