It’s a new year, but I am not striving to shed a pound (although that wouldn’t be half bad either), I am instead trying to shed an attitude. I’m trying to become a better, more positive person. I know that it is not all that unusual a resolution, but it’s one that is less superficial than simply wishing to look more slim in jeans, but just as important as gaining a healthy body. Good attitude equals good health, in my opinion, and I believe that if I gradually, on a daily basis, look at things in a more positive light–see the glass as half full instead of half empty–maybe this attitude will spill over (no pun intended) into all areas of my being and become my usual mindset.

Today’s WordPress topic regards stress and I have to say, my positive attitude is giving me less stress. I was able to take a good, long hike with two close friends this morning. We started at 8:30 a.m. and ended around 11:30. We climbed a mountain and we turned around. The air was crisp, the sun was out, and I was in great spirits. Even though nothing has immensely changed from a week ago, or two, or three, my mood was greatly lifted by that brisk hike and upbeat conversation.

It is said that we can’t always change our circumstances, we can only change the attitude we have in looking at them. I intend to change my attitude, increase my prayer time, and do a little something for myself every week, if not every day. A good attitude goes a long way. I’m hoping at least until January 2012.