silver-threads-sm.gif (4858 bytes) December 2008

Tips for a Great Day:
It's all about attitude!

by  Alan Mundey
       4-H/ Youth Specialist
       Bates County
       mundeya@missouri.edu

Few people get up in the morning thinking they want to have a bad day. Yet in many cases the day turns out that way because of an unpleasant experience with another person, a stressful event or because they worry about something in the future over which they have no control. But every day has the potential to be a good day.

Try these tips to help you have a great day:

u Smile, laugh and encourage others. Happiness is contagious.

u Meet each day with enthusiasm and determination. When the cashier at the grocery store cheerfully says, "Have a nice day," why not answer with an enthusiastic "I am going to," rather than a simple, "Yeah, thanks."

u Set goals and take action on your dreams. Don't wander aimlessly without establishing any course of direction. With no goals or dreams, life can seem rather unfulfilled.

u Manage your time or be mismanaged by it. Plan what you want to do each day and then try and fulfill those tasks.

u Listen and learn. Have you ever wondered why we have two ears and only one mouth? How can you effectively participate in any conversation if you do not listen to what others are saying?

u Eliminate excuses. The person who really wants to do something finds a way rather than an excuse.

u   View change as an opportunity for growth. Change can be good; it is how you adjust to change that makes the difference. Remember to keep a positive attitude.

u Be honest with yourself and others. Honesty is best.

u Don’t find fault; find a solution. Fault-finding and criticizing drive wedges between people.

u Count your blessings. Always be thankful for what you have.

These guidelines can help enrich your life and make it more satisfying. Why not give them a try?

 

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  Kris Jenkins jenkinsk@missouri.edu
Regional Specialist
Human Environmental Sciencs
Last revised: 01/27/09