Radiate sunshine today!

I was talking with someone recently and we were discussing worry and how, by focusing on it, it can take over and consume us. Invariably, when we are worrying about something, we're trying to change a situation that we have no control over. For example, we may worry about a first day, an appointment that's coming up, or perhaps even those worries about a medical concern. But the reality is, worrying won't change the situation. Worry is a thief that steals the present moment away from us.

Now don't get me wrong, I worry! I'm not perfect at letting go of it and do my own share of perseverating on things that I cannot change. And, I have learned a long the way some strategies that can really help to ground me and keep me present in the moment which, truth be told, lessen that worry and even take it away! (If only I'd remember to use the strategies!!!!)

Here's the thing though. How can we lessen the worry and still stay present? Well, for starters we can focus on the positive by looking for the sunshine or even being the sunshine! When we radiate happiness, it becomes contagious and what may have started as an effort to present as happy becomes actual reality! That's not to say that problems are that easy to let go of and so create a container in your mind, some sort of fancy box with a bow on top even, and imagine putting the problem in there and giving it to someone to keep safe. Let them be the keeper of your worries for a bit until you're in a place where you're ready to face the fear and address it in a productive way.

So, today I DARE you to find some sunshine! Call a friend, buy yourself some flowers, or play your favorite song and sing along .... and for those 5 minutes or more, remind yourself that there's nothing worrying can do in that moment so why do it?

Anxiety, fear, and worry .... they're real and can be paralyzing. I get it. AND, we choose where to focus our energy and I encourage you to dig deep and find the sunshine!