Every day the world seems to slip a little further into a darker place. The war, the economy, the environment, corruption, class disparity, disease, and so many issues bombard our senses every day. So how can you stay positive in a world where things can look so bleak? It's not always easy, but it can be done. Here's my list of tips to keep a smile on your face.

KEEP THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE. Sometimes we just need to worry about our own little tiny corner of the world. If you can keep your own life in order, it will help your outlook immensely. That doesn't mean ignoring big problems that face our neighborhoods, states, countries, and the planet. Those are important too. But if you worry about the bigger problems too much, you'll get lost in them. Keep your own house in order first, then you'll be in the right frame of mind to face bigger issues.

AVOID SENSELESS CONFRONTATION. Some people love confrontation. The rest of us patently do not. I avoid it whenever I can. Of course, some times it's unavoidable, but that's rare. In most cases, you can take the high road and avoid the stress of a confrontational situation. This could be at work, at home, with a stranger, or wherever. Before you get involved in any argument, make sure the point of contention is worth arguing over. If it's not, turn and walk away. In the long run, you'll be glad you did.

DO SOMETHING FOR YOURSELF. I guess this is the "Me Time" advice. It's a bit of a cliche, but certainly a valid one. You have to set aside time for yourself every day. It could be a hobby, an interest, or anything really. Just find something you love and make time to do it every day. It will recharge your batteries and keep you feeling good about life. If you can make it something active, all the better. Keeping your body healthy is as important as keeping your mind healthy.

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH THE RIGHT PEOPLE. If you find yourself feeling down a lot, take a look at the people you spend your day with. Maybe there's a friend at work who is always complaining about something. Whether you realize it or not, they might be sapping your positive energy. If it gets to be unhealthy, find some new friends. There are more positive people in the world than negative, you just have to look around and you'll find one. But bear in mind, you need to be one yourself.

LAUGH. Laughter really is the best medicine. No one should take themselves too seriously. Everyone needs to laugh at the world and laugh at themselves every now and then. You can figure out a lot about a person by the depth of the laugh lines on their face.

It can be a struggle to stay positive in today's world. But when you keep things in perspective, it's easier than you might think. Remember, you only get one shot at life, so don't look back wishing you'd have smiled and laughed more.

Learn more about this author, Sean Curtis.
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