Let’s Think Positive
olinskychris | March 14, 2011Feeling surrounded by negative news, negative people, negative everything? Then look at life through a fresh set of eyes. We are also surrounded by positive news, although sometimes that negative stuff gets in the way. Here are some positive trends happening right now:
*We are safer. Murders, robberies, rapes and assaults in the U.S. were down 3.5% and auto theft dropped 39% from 2007 to 2008; burglary has dropped 43% since 1989.
*We use less energy. Average per person energy use is down and our economy overall is more energy efficient.
*We live longer and feel better. We will live about 10 years longer than our parents did.
*Youth are smoking less and using less alcohol and hard drugs (including meth, cocaine, LSD and hallucinogens).
*We are conserving fuel. Although some of this might be attributed to the rising cost of oil and gasoline, mass transit usage is higher than at any time since 1956.
*We donate time and money. Both adults and youth are volunteering more with non-profit organizations. And, despite tough economic times, $300 billion was donated to charities in 2009.
*We are driving more safely with fewer fatal car crashes.
*We are giving away what we no longer want or need, which keeps our cast-offs out of the landfill.
*Forested land has increased in the past 30 years.
*Our air is cleaner since the six most common air pollutant levels have fallen since 1990.
*Exercise is on the move. Fitness programs for older adults, strength training, and working out with a personal trainer have all seen increases.
*The local food movement has hit the ground running. We are growing and preserving more of our own food. The maker of Kerr and Ball-brand mason jars reported canning equipment sales increases of 30% in 2009.
*Research by the American Heart Association, published in 2009, showed that women who expected good actually live longer. Positive thinking can impact physical health and interactions with others.
Spring brings with it fresh air and sunshine, a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature, and an opportunity to see the positives in the world around us. Look for those positives and share them with others.
Author: Christine F. Olinsky, Miami Valley Area Leader and Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Montgomery County
Sometimes, as I lay down in my soft warm bed with a roof over my head, I feel grateful for those simple comforts that many people do not have. Each international crisis, whether it be wars or natural disasters, highlights for me those positives that can often be taken for granted.
You are so right, Donna. We have much for which to be thankful.
You are so right. There is so much good happening, but it is easy to lose sight of the good things.