Choose Positivity

Winter weather will soon be upon us, and for me that means hot chocolate, warm blankets, and endless Christmas movies. My motivation seems to lack during these cold winter months, even when I try my best to push forward. I think it’s the lack of sunshine and inability to be outside for long periods of time before becoming too cold. It is easy to stay inside and stay comfortable. However, I also have noticed that it is in these months where life can become a bit much. Staying positive on the dark, dreary, and cold days seems to be impossible.

This past weekend I attended the AFA Leaders Conference in Kansas City. One of the sessions I attended was titled, “Unleashing the Most Positive You”. Susie Thompson, the keynote speaker, shared with us a few ways to stay positive daily. The first thing we need to understand is that we all have attitudes, but it’s what we do with those attitudes that matter. Charles Swindoll said, “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it”. Attitude is a mindset, a choice, and a mental focus. However, I know that it is easier said than done. How can we achieve this attitude of positivity?

These are a few of my sorority sisters who choose positivity. Find those people who lift you up.

The first thing we must do is start thinking positively about ourselves and the life around us. Thompson shared a rule that for every negative thought, you must think of two positives. By doing this, it will become habit and the world around us will start to become a more vibrant place because of all the opportunities we see, not the downfalls. This will flow into the way we treat others. One thing I personally strive for is a “make their day” mindset. I want everyone that I come in contact with to have a positive and uplifting experience. This will allow the positivity to be passed on to more and more people.

It is important that we surround ourselves with energizing people. These people will give us the energy to take on everyday tasks, which will allow us to choose positivity. The fun individuals will be the ones we can celebrate life with. Find the people in your life who push you to be better, who believe in you, and who encourage you.

Finally, once choosing positivity, PASS IT ON. Let others feel it from you. Our world sure needs it. Lou Holtz stated, “Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it”. Kansas FFA, we are all able to be positive. Let’s find the determination to do it, and choose the attitude to live it.

Celebrate life and all the people in it.

Forever Blue,

Katelyn Bohnenblust

Kansas FFA Treasurer