When we focus on the good, we cultivate positive emotional states. Energy flows toward where we direct our attention. Whatever we rest our attention on grows.
If we want to cultivate positive mental and emotional states, we can do this by seeking, noticing, and savoring the good experiences in our lives. We don’t do this as a way to avoid difficult experiences. It’s important as well to cultivate our capacity for skillfully responding to difficult times. We do this as a way to encourage wellbeing and resilience for our body, heart, and mind.
The capacity for delight is the gift of paying attention. –Julia Cameron
Positive mental and emotional states nurture wellbeing of the body, heart, and mind.
Just for today, trying devoting time and attention to what is going well in your life. Think about and attend to what you love most. Imagine your life the way you dream that it could be. Focus attention on positive people and relationships that nurture you and encourage you to be the person that you desire to become.
Take time to notice the beauty of the world that surrounds you. Notice how you feel at the end of the day after spending the day cultivating positive mental and emotional states!
Jen Johnson is a licensed counselor teaching meditation for stress reduction and resilience. Learn more about working with Jen.