A simple shift of your perspective can completely change your outlook and attitude about an event, your job and your personal life. When you dread going to the gym or heading to your job, I’d imagine that your workout or day at work might not be that pleasant…what if I told you that you have control over that whole experience?

Your mind is a powerful place. Fostering negative feelings can feel heavy and affect how you interact with your loved ones, coworkers and even strangers. As you go throughout your day, pay attention to your thoughts. Are you cursing at the drivers on the road?…at least you have that car to get you from place to place. Rolling your eyes at having to attend to a customer at work?…be happy that you have your job and do the best you can!

Your day is what you make it.

In our everyday lives we run into obstacles and struggles- everyone does. How you react to it makes all the difference. You can gripe or complain about how things aren’t going your way, but what is that doing for you? Take that energy and turn it to positivity and productivity. You have the opportunity to learn and become successful like anyone else. You, too, can overcome tough and trying times. Realize that you’re not the only one that has dealt with this situation and you’ll be okay too.

When someone is rude to you, or seems to ignore you when you say hi, realize that everyone has their own lives going on. Don’t take it personally. Maybe they’re going through a tough time or has a stressful project at work that they’re thinking about, they’re not out to just be mean to you. Don’t get me wrong, there are some rotten people out there, but they are the way they are for a reason. Let that be their problem, don’t let someone’s rudeness dim your light.

Working in the fitness industry, I encounter mostly positive people that understand the importance of practicing gratitude. However there are still some people that moan & groan about having to come in and workout, I reply with “no, you GET to workout”. Having access to a gym and having your health to be able to move is an incredible opportunity that many wish they had. Even if you are injured, there are always ways to still move your body. Just have to think outside the box!

The bottom line is that life is so good. Find that silver lining in situations that leave you feeling defeated. It might take some soul searching, but I promise that there is always something to be grateful for. Shift your perspective and realize that you’re in control of your thoughts and path.

#funfact: 2018 is the first year Russia has hosted the World Cup.