Last fall, I had a few people (family and friends) tell me that I am positive and upbeat. In truth, I am positive and upbeat, but it is a constant choice to stay on this path. I choose to live this way. I choose to not let the negative effect my life. It is a daily choice that requires reflection on your emotions/feelings to stay on point to what really matters to you and is important.
Over the summer of 2016, I made a friend who inspired me to start living my life this way. Her energy was so amazing, positive, and happy. I wanted to let my life became this way. Surround yourself with people who make you better and remind you of the good inside you.
For me, it is a constant journey within to stay on the path of positivity and kindness. Lately, there has been a few downs that have left me feeling defeated. When I am feeling this way I like to go back and reflect on what I am grateful for in life. What I am grateful for in life gets me back to being positive and kind, thus being my main source of hope.
\\ What Gives ME Hope. //
Yesterday, for Hope For The Day we launched the 'What Gives You Hope Wednesday' Series. During the series, reflecting on what gives me hope in life and what I am thankful for really uplifted my mood. Being thankful is such an easy and quick thing you can do everyday. Taking a moment each day to be thankful and mindful for all the beauty around you can completely change your entire day, week, and life. If ever you're feeling lost without hope - take that moment to be thankful. Appreciating what is around you is the key to joy.
\\ My dog, Riley, gives me hope to love unconditionally. //
Everyday I get to wake up with this cute little dog is a blessing. He teaches me so much. He teaches me to be happy to have food on my plate and to always take/enjoy a nice walk. Most importantly, he teaches me to love unconditionally. Riley loves me no matter if I wore makeup, if I worked, if I went to the gym - he doesn't care. He just loves me for me and wants to spend time together. So often we put conditions on our friendships and relationships. As humans, we put expectations in relationships of what the other is going to do - when this need isn't met, we can become in a negative state. Fully and unconditionally embracing who someone is can let you always remain in a positive state. We all just want to be loved in this world - loving others without conditions spreads peace.
\\ Words that give me HOPE. //
All that I seek is already within me. What a powerful affirmation! Say this to yourself everyday. So often we try to seek happiness and joy from outside ourselves. I have, but it never truly makes me happy. You need to remember that your inner joy and inner authentic self has always been inside you. You're all you need right now in this moment. Appreciate yourself and who you're.
You can view the series premiere and weekly episodes of What Gives You Hope Wednesday by clicking here. To view What Gives You Hope each week as it premieres, add @HopeForTheDay on Snapchat. For weekly updates, you can find them here.