"A promising body of new research shows that, with a little mental effort, recalling good events from the past can boost well-being. Psychologists have begun studying 'savoring,' the process of active enjoyment of the present, and of using active appreciation to enjoy a past success. They ask subjects to spend some minutes reminiscing about a specific past event in a positive way. The savoring subjects report feeling happier than those in a control group. The key component to effective savoring is focused attention. By taking the time and spending the effort to appreciation the positive, people are able to experience more well-being."
"Begin thinking more intentionally:
- Direct your focus, where possible, to the positive aspects of life.
- Pay attention to how you interpret daily events and actively challenge and alter unhelpful thinking patterns.
- Savor happy moments, concentrate on recognizing them, and take the time to remember and bask in them later.
- Notice the good things that others do, and express your gratitude to them."
If thoughts were like money, the cumulative time I've spent dredging up unpleasant past thoughts in my lifetime would have me further in debt than the federal government! Negativity for me is like an allergy, to be treated deliberately. Daily journaling (and of course, Hidden Blogging) has been a fabulous antidote from the challenges of the past. Life is just too short to spend it wallowing in historical muck!
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