Be Positive

Do you know someone who is always cheerful? Someone who sees the glass half full? Always positive? Hopeful? Bright? Encouraging? Upbeat? Looks at life through rose-colored glasses?

Our world has far too much pessimism. I’ll admit that sometimes it’s easier to see all the problems that surround us in our neighborhood, our community, our country and the world or in ourselves. But it certainly doesn’t contribute to a happy life if you are always a negative person. Do you like being around people who are negative? Don’t be that person. We need more people who are optimistic.

When it comes to flute practicing and performing (or any other endeavor for that matter), it is critical to stay positive and encouraging to yourself. Find the good things you are accomplishing through practicing or performing.

For example, don’t get frustrated if you can’t get a passage after a 10 minute practice session or an hour practice session. Some things take time and some things take a lot more time than you think to get to the level you desire. Be patient and stay positive and keep trying. Look back on how much you have learned in the past. Rejoice in small accomplishments. Be nice to yourself.

I promise that your life will be much happier and you will be more successful if you can learn to look on the bright side. I’m sure you’ve heard the expression “the power of positive thinking”. Optimism is a conduit for power. You can Google a million quotes about being positive.

Are you familiar with the term “Pollyanna-ish”? If not, go watch the 1960 movie Pollyanna with Hayley Mills, which is based off the 1913 novel. It’s an excellent story about an orphan who truly knows how to look on the bright side of life.

I have a tile plaque in my living room which provides a daily reminder to…

• THINK positive.
• DO positive.
• BE positive.
• STAY positive.
• ACT positive.
• FEEL positive.

I challenge you to Be Positive for at least one day and discover how your life can change for the better.