give yourself a theme for this year

I've been thinking a lot about being mindful. And I think I need to be more mindful. Why? Because it's not thinking! Thinking is too chaotic. The negative thoughts are dangerous. During the day it's - ideas, rushing, chaos, problems, solutions, doubts, concerns. And while thinking about these things is very important, on occasion, I would like to replace some of my thinking with mindfulness.
What is mindfulness? I'm not exactly sure, but I know it's not thinking! Mindfulness just feels different. It feels better. It feels awake, conscious, aware. Feeling instead of thinking. Recognizing and observing. I think a big component of mindfulness is the acceptance. If I am mindful, I am accepting. Accepting of myself, of those around me, of my current situation.
It's not exactly a New Year's resolution, but more of a theme for this year. I will try to be more mindful, and will start by playing this song on repeat, as my personal mantra - thoughts, get outa my head!

a recipe for a better day

Sometimes it's hard to stay positive, especially when people you know, neighbors, and people you don't even know are verbally attacking you. So how do you stay positive? Well, here's how I do it. (Or attempt to do it.)

• I think about my good, close friends and all the fun, ridiculous times we've spent together. (Facebook's new Activity Log is actually a pretty good way to do that!)
• I take care of myself - go running, make a good dinner, or go to bed early.
• I treat myself to a little pick me up - nice piece of chocolate, cold beer, lunch with a friend.
• If I feel like I need to vent or say something to someone, I write it in my journal first, or think about what exactly I would say. (And depending on the situation, follow through and actually talk with the person.)
• I look through photos, read a good book or watch a movie. Anything to think about something completely different.
• I listen to ridiculous music and sing along. And dance. Like a buffoon. 

Here's to hoping that your bad days are few and far between!