For many of us, life is unceasingly hectic. We're running around doing so much all the time that it's easy for us to wake up cranky in the morning without any desire to get out of bed (I admit that sometimes I wake up on the surly side of the bed). But our attitudes are vitally important in setting the focus and tone of the rest of the day.

In this negative world, it's important for God's people to genuinely feel and project a more positive attitude as much as possible.

Why is it so important for us to do this? First, we are called to be lights to the world. Our Teacher said, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). He's talking about being the kind of shining brightness that allows us to make a positive impact on the lives of those around us. It is important not to let a shadow of negativity distract others from the true light we are supposed to be sharing.

Also, having a positive attitude helps us to have good health. Solomon knew this concept even before modern science proved it to be true (Proverbs 17:22). When we feel good, it's that much easier to do good.

Being positive definitely helps us to focus our attention in an outward direction, to the benefit of others around us. Imagine going through your life without the hope of the Kingdom of God ahead of you. How dismal! This is what our coworkers and friends outside of the Church are facing every day. You and I have the opportunity to encourage them and offer the wisdom that God has given us when they need our support.

Finally, if we're being more positive, we're just plain easier to get along with! Our families deserve our best.

So what are some practical ways to jump-start our day and help us have a more positive attitude?

• When one of my friends wakes up in the morning, the first thing he does is say a quick prayer. This simple action helps jump-start his focus for the day. Regular prayer helps too of course.
• Personally, I used to be a negative person, but the gift of a gratitude journal really helped me. I would write down five good things in my life that I was thankful for every day. It's quick, simple and all you need is paper and a pen.
• For some people, reading something humorous really helps because you can't help being more positive after a good laugh. The added benefit is that humor is so easily shared with others.
• If you're feeling down one morning, I recommend reviewing the wonderful future we will all have in the Kingdom of God and how beautiful the world will be at that time. It's hard not to be positive with such a bright future ahead of us!
• During the day if you start feeling more and more worn out and negative, stop and refocus. Sometimes writing down an encouraging scripture and taking it with me during the day really helps keep me positively grounded.

And remember, "People may accuse you of being unrealistic if you choose to look on the positive side rather than the negative. But it's no more unrealistic than being negative all the time. It's simply a choice" (quote from The On My Own Handbook by Bobb Biehl).