Want to feel better? Write down good things!

There are so many things to keep you down - the economy, layoffs, wage cuts (I just took a 20% salary reduction), a bad commute, bad weather. I have found some escapes from the spiral that is negative, gloomy thought. For me, personally, I find writing helps - these Hub Pages are therapeutic for me. The one universal too I have found though, is a Journal of Positive Thoughts. Some call it a Gratitude Journal (I have this app on my iPod Touch), Zen Thoughts, etc. The name doesn't matter - it's the key concept of positive thinking that is so important.

The goal here is to capture at least 5 things daily that either you were greatful for or made you smile. Yes, it's cheesy sounding, and hard to do some days. I really need to focus on my entire day and dig in real deep sometimes to get to 5 things. I have found that the best way to keep this journal active and useful is to update it as things happen. Here's an example of a recent day for me to get you started:

• Woke up early! The extra 5 minutes was nice.
• I didn't have to ice scrape or squeegee my windows this morning.
• I had a good, homemade lunch. Delicious and economical!
• Great workout.
• I feel creative today - the juices are flowing!

So, start today! Use and old notebook lying around the house, download the iPhone/iPod app, start a new Notepad or Word document on your computer, and get writing! It will change your outlook on life!