5 Powerful Things That Have a Massive Positive Impact

Todd Gifford – Success Coach

I read a book recently that I thought was very inspiring and included many things that could be put to use by anyone. Easy and quick read because the chapters/topics are all about 1-2 pages. The book is called “Up Thoughts for Down Times—Encouraging Words For Getting Through Life” by Les Brown. The title of the book caught my attention because at this time of year, and particularly with some of the recent tragic events in the news, it is easy to get a little ‘down’. I like to think about the difference or impact that I made during the past 12 months, 24 months, so far in my life?. What all did I accomplish? Did I make other peoples’ lives better? Did I make a difference? What can or should I do different in the next year?

All in all, Les Brown talks about 106 ‘up’ thoughts and topics in the book. I will pick out just a handful of my favorites to share with you. If you like what you see here, pick up the book.

A Positive Start

Much of the time, the biggest hurdle in reaching any type of a goal or target is just getting started in the right direction. This applies to the start of our day, and we all have a very special opportunity to reset and begin fresh each morning. This is the perfect time to concentrate on positive thoughts and focus on your goals, both work and personal. Are you constantly distracted in the morning by negative news stories or negative thoughts? Consider making changes to keep your attention squarely on positive thoughts. Whatever you think about long enough and intently enough with eventually become a reality for you in your life.

Getting It Done

They say there are 3 types of people: those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those that ask what the heck happened. Which one are you? It is easy to watch or ask what happened, but challenging to make things happen. Making things happen, trying, and taking action puts you more in control of life and makes life more interesting and exciting. Sure you will fail some times with more swings of the bat, but that is just learning to apply to future swings of the bat.

Brave Questions, Brave Answers

The best times in life come when brave questions are asked and answered. And the most critical questions are those that you ask yourself. When was the last time you asked yourself a brave question and provided a brave answer? To live life to the fullest, you must be able to ask and answer the tough questions — to yourself and those around you. Here is a brave question to ask: “What do I really want out of life?” and “Do I think I have what it takes to get it?”. Do you sometimes avoid asking the brave questions because the answer may be difficult to handle? It takes a courageous person to be truthful in those defining moments. You have to be fearless and accepting of whatever the truth is. The reward for doing this is big!

Take Care of Yourself

When was the last time you did something just for yourself. Not something major, but just a walk in the park or a little shopping excursion for something fun for yourself. Does this sound selfish? I always think about what they say when you are about to take off in an airplane: “first put on your oxygen mask, and then assist your child with theirs”. We need to remember in order for us to take care of others, we must first take the very best possible care of ourselves. Taking care of yourself does not mean you have to turn your back to others. In fact, when you take the time to lift yourself, the result is extremely positive for others around you. I see this first hand in my family. My wife and girls are happiest when I am happy and healthy. Time with them is higher quality when I have taken the time and effort to invest in myself. Do something each day to take care of yourself.

Travel in Good Company

Misery loves company, but so does success. Be aware of the company you keep. There is an old saying “even if you have an ocean of pure milk, it can be turned into poison with just a few grams of sour curds.” Just like what you think about intently long enough comes true, you also ‘become’ who you spend time around. Work hard at spending time around positive and successful (your definition of success) people, read about successful people, and watch programs about people with qualities you admire. Those qualities will transfer to you.

Be Your Best,
Todd D. Gifford