The Road To Self-Improvement

"Change is difficult. The action of a poor self-image is always to perpetuate itself. As we start out on the road to self-improvement, the tendency is to keep replaying the old patterns of blame, guilt and self denigration." -- Andrew Matthews

The mental programs of self-blame and guilt are not easy to overcome. Positive self-talk is the best place to start. By reprogramming your mind with positive thoughts you will eventually defeat the negativity that is associated with your life prior to recovery.

Going through the motions

"Going through the motions can trigger the emotions. Surely you've noticed. You're in a testy mood, but when the phone rings you feign cheer while talking to a friend. Strangely, after hanging up, you no longer feel so grumpy. Such is the value of social occasions--they impel us to behave as if we were happy, which in fact helps free us from our unhappiness." - David Meyers

Psychologists have long known the power of changing behavior in order to change attitudes and emotions. In the Alcoholics Anonymous community this strategy is simply called, "fake it 'til you make it." What ever you call it, it is a simple, straightforward strategy for improving your outlook and your life.

Happiness

Happiness is a Choice

Happiness is a Choice

"No one is in control of your happiness but you; therefore, you have the power to change anything about yourself or your life that you want to change." - Barbara De Angelis

De Angelis makes a very bold statement about happiness and change. She challenges the attitudes held by many who believe that happiness is managed by fate, or by circumstances beyond our control. Happiness is a choice. Your attitude is a choice. You hold in your hand the power to decide. You can decide about the life you want.