Energy is contagious! Have you ever been around a person who has nothing nice to say? How did that make you feel? If the answer is negative, then that makes sense. Out of a negative perspective, you can only see bad things. On the other hand, have you ever been around someone who is full of life and kindness? How did that make you feel? I have a feeling the answer is positive.

Sometimes I get in the slump of thinking, Why me? I had to prepare for my own wedding last July in the middle of a crisis, graduate from school with no ceremony, and had my honeymoon cancelled in December. I had bad day after bad day, and then I remembered- responding to my self-talk is how I set the tone for how I respond to everyone around me.

I understand- this past year has been anything but ordinary. Not only are we still in a pandemic, but there are lots of things to do like pay bills, make dinner, and honestly- just do life. We cannot change things around us like the pandemic, economy, or other people, but we can change our mindset toward situations that come about our day. Try to remember that only you are in control of how you view the world, and you can impact those around you. One simple mind-shift can create a positive atmosphere not only your family will like being around, but your brain as well.

4 easy tips for changing your perspective:

• Take time to reflect on your blessings by keeping a journal and writing 3 blessings in your life every morning to start your day off in a positive tone.
• For every 1 negative thing you say, practice saying 2 positive things about that topic.
• Acknowledge your stress and listen to your body. It is important to take a break when your body needs it so you can be at your best mindset moving forward. Check out our Strength in Stress blog post on some ways to recognize stress.
• Know how to recognize and respond to your negative self-talk. For more on how to do that within your family, check out The Science of Parenting. In their recent podcast, Talk it Up, Mackenzie and Lori break down self-talk as a parent.

Hello! I am Brianna Montross, currently a graduate student and dietetic intern at Iowa State University. Some of my favorite things to do are write poetry, run, and find new ways to incorporate veggies in my cooking.