ARE YOU FEEDING THE POSITIVE DOG?

Jon Gordon's newest work is a book titled, "The Positive Dog."  It's enlightening how much negativity takes a toll on organizations and more importantly people's lives.  This book is another must read from Jon  Gordon.  Here are some thoughts from this empowering book:

Your biggest problem is that you are feeding the negative dog inside you.  You se, we all have two dogs inside of us.  One dog is positive, happy optimistic, and hopeful.  The other dog is negative, mad, sad, pessimistic, and fearful.  These two dogs often fight inside us but guess who wins the fight?

You have to feed the positive dog inside you and starve the negative dog.  The more you feed the positive  dog, the more it grows.  The ore you starve the negative dog, the more it shrinks and weakens.  You become the dog you feed, so feed the positive dog and your big problems will give away to big blessings and a bright future.

Feeding the positive dog doesn't happen unless you take action.  It's something that you must intentionally do each day.

Feed the positive dog with real smiles and big laughs!

We can feed the positive dog inside of us with thoughts of gratitude and appreciation.  Take a Thank-You walk.

Abundance flwos into your life when gratitude flows out of your heart.

Gratitude is like muscle.  The more we do with it the stronger it gets.

One of my favorite wasy to change the story you tell yourself is to say "get to" instead of "have to."

You can make a pact with your self that you are not going to complain unless you identify one or two solutions to your complaint.

The most important decision we can make is to choose faith instead of fear.

Prayer and meditation feed your positive dog.

When you are positive, you not only make yourself better, you make everyone around you better.

Kindness is a gift that is always returned to you.

The difference between success and failure is belief, and this is often instilled in us by someone who encourages us.

Teams that experienced interaztions at a ratio greathan three positive to one negative were more productive and higher performing that those with a ratio of less than three to one.

 "Are You Feeding the Positive Dog? A Guide to Cultivating Positivity in Your Life"

Life is filled with choices, and one of the most important choices we make every day is whether we feed the positive dog or the negative dog within us. This age-old parable tells us that within each person, there are two metaphorical dogs – one representing positivity, love, and happiness, and the other representing negativity, fear, and despair. The dog that thrives is the one we choose to feed. In this unique and informative article, we will explore the concept of "feeding the positive dog" and provide practical insights on how to cultivate positivity in your life.

The Parable of Two Dogs

The story of the two dogs comes from a Native American parable that illustrates the internal struggle we all face between positive and negative thoughts and emotions. In this parable, an elder tells his grandchild that inside every person, there are two wolves, one good and one evil. The grandchild asks which wolf wins, and the elder responds, "The one you feed."

This parable underscores the fundamental truth that our thoughts, emotions, and actions are shaped by the choices we make. When we focus on positive thoughts and actions, we nourish the positive aspects of our lives. Conversely, if we dwell on negativity and fear, we feed the negative aspects, leading to unhappiness and despair.

Understanding the Power of Positivity

Improved Mental Health: Feeding the positive dog is linked to better mental health. Positive thoughts and emotions can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to a happier and more fulfilling life.

Enhanced Relationships: Positivity has the power to strengthen relationships. When we approach interactions with love, empathy, and kindness, we build stronger connections with others.

Increased Resilience: Positivity boosts resilience. A positive mindset helps us bounce back from adversity and face life's challenges with a sense of hope and determination.

Better Physical Health: Studies have shown that a positive outlook can lead to better physical health. Positivity is associated with lower blood pressure, a stronger immune system, and a longer lifespan.

Enhanced Problem-Solving: A positive mindset encourages creative problem-solving. When we focus on solutions rather than dwelling on problems, we become more effective at overcoming obstacles.

Practical Ways to Feed the Positive Dog

Practice Gratitude: Cultivate gratitude by regularly acknowledging the things you're thankful for. Keeping a gratitude journal can help shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life.

Surround Yourself with Positivity: Spend time with people who uplift you and radiate positivity. Limit interactions with individuals who consistently bring negativity into your life.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness and meditation techniques can help you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions. They allow you to observe negativity without judgment and let it go.

Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals that give you a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Celebrate your progress along the way, no matter how small.

Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind and compassionate toward yourself. Treat yourself with the same love and care you would offer to a friend.

Limit Negative Inputs: Reduce exposure to negative news, social media, and toxic influences. Choose to consume content that inspires and uplifts you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it possible to completely eliminate negativity from my life?

While it's unlikely to eliminate negativity entirely, you can significantly reduce its impact by cultivating positivity and practicing resilience.

What if I'm surrounded by negative people or circumstances?

Even in challenging environments, you can choose how you respond. Focus on the aspects you can control and seek support when needed.

Can a positive mindset improve my physical health?

Yes, numerous studies suggest a strong connection between a positive mindset and better physical health. Positivity can boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

How do I maintain positivity during difficult times?

During tough times, maintaining positivity can be challenging, but it's essential. Seek support from loved ones, practice self-compassion, and remind yourself that challenges are opportunities for growth.

What are some daily practices to promote positivity?

Daily practices include mindfulness meditation, gratitude journaling, setting positive affirmations, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

The parable of the two dogs teaches us a profound lesson: we have the power to shape our lives by choosing what we feed – positivity or negativity. Cultivating positivity is not about ignoring life's challenges or pretending that everything is perfect. It's about recognizing that our thoughts and actions have the power to shape our reality.

By embracing positivity, practicing gratitude, and fostering resilience, we can transform our lives and the lives of those around us. Remember, every day is an opportunity to feed the positive dog within you and create a brighter, more fulfilling future. So, ask yourself today, "Which dog will I choose to feed?"

POSITIVE REMINDERS FOR EXCELLING

With the NCAA tournament approaching here are some great reminders for teams

In Terry Orlick's book, "In Pursuit of Excellence," he shares some positive reminders for excelling. Here they are:

Always positive thoughts. Only positive thoughts help you do the things that you really want to do. So think to yourself, talk to yourself, and focus only in ways that will help you live and perform to your true capacity.

Always positive images. Only positive images of the things that you want to do or hope to accomplish will help you to accomplish them. So imagine yourself being the way you want to be, achieving the things that you want to achieve and doing the things that you want to do exactly the way that you would like to do them-with full focus, percision, and total confidence.

Always I can. There is no advantage in approaching performance or life situations thinking I can't or I won't be able to do this. Approach all challenges and opportunities thinking only I can or We can. Act as if you can, even if your are not sure that you can. This perspective will give you your best chance of achieving your goals and living your dreams.

Always opportunities. Opportunities are present in everything-to learn, to grow, to find something positive or of personal value, to know yourself better, to overcome challenges, to become stronger, wiser, more focused. Find the opportunities in everything.

Always focused. Only when you are fully focused on connecting with each step, each experience, or each performance can you live and perform to your true potential. So stay focused on the little things that free you to feel your best, be your best, and perform your best.

Always lessons. In every practice, performance, and life experience there are lessons. Look for the good things that you have done, draw out the positive lessons from each experience, and live those lessons.

Always step-by-step. You can accomplish great things by taking tiny steps forward each day. The step in front of you is all that matters. You are always capable of taking that one little step. Take that step, and then the next, and the next. This is the only path to your desired destination.

 Positive Reminders for Excelling: Unlocking Your Full Potential

Harnessing the Power of Positivity and Self-Motivation for Success

Excellence is not an accident; it's a deliberate choice. Achieving greatness in any area of life requires dedication, determination, and the right mindset. Positive reminders serve as valuable tools in this journey, helping individuals stay motivated, focused, and resilient in the face of challenges. In this article, we will explore the significance of positive reminders for excelling and provide you with a comprehensive guide to harnessing their power for personal and professional growth.

The Power of Positive Reminders

Positive reminders are not mere affirmations or feel-good slogans. They are potent tools that can reshape your thinking, alter your behaviors, and empower you to excel in various aspects of life. Here's why they are so powerful:

Mindset Transformation: Positive reminders shift your mindset from one of self-doubt and negativity to one of self-belief and optimism. They remind you that you are capable of greatness and encourage you to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.

Increased Resilience: Life is full of ups and downs. Positive reminders act as resilience boosters, helping you bounce back from setbacks and stay determined during tough times. They reinforce the idea that failure is not the end but a stepping stone to success.

Improved Focus: In a world filled with distractions, positive reminders keep you on track. They serve as a compass, guiding your attention and energy toward your goals and priorities.

Enhanced Self-Efficacy: Positive reminders boost your self-efficacy, which is the belief in your ability to achieve specific goals. When you consistently remind yourself of your capabilities, you become more confident in tackling challenges.

Stress Reduction: By focusing on positive reminders, you reduce stress and anxiety levels. They provide a mental sanctuary, a place where you can retreat to find solace and strength.

Positive Reminders for Excelling

Now, let's explore some powerful positive reminders that can help you excel in various aspects of life:

"I am capable of greatness.": Remind yourself daily that you possess the potential for greatness within you. Whether it's excelling in your career, building meaningful relationships, or achieving personal goals, this reminder reinforces your inherent capabilities.

"Challenges are opportunities in disguise.": Instead of viewing challenges as obstacles, remind yourself that they are opportunities for growth and learning. Embrace challenges with enthusiasm, knowing that they will make you stronger and wiser.

"I am in control of my thoughts and actions.": This reminder empowers you to take charge of your life. It reinforces the idea that you have the power to choose your thoughts and actions, ultimately shaping your destiny.

"Consistency is the key to success.": Remind yourself that consistency is often more important than sporadic bursts of effort. Small, consistent steps toward your goals can lead to significant progress over time.

"I am resilient and adaptable.": In times of adversity, remind yourself of your resilience and adaptability. You have the strength to navigate through challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.

"Every setback is a setup for a comeback.": This reminder highlights the temporary nature of setbacks. They may slow you down, but they can't stop you from achieving your goals. Use setbacks as stepping stones to propel yourself forward.

"I attract positivity and abundance into my life.": Cultivate a positive mindset by reminding yourself that you attract positivity and abundance. This reminder encourages you to focus on the good and believe that the universe is conspiring in your favor.

"I am a continuous learner.": Never stop learning. Remind yourself that growth and excellence go hand in hand. Embrace new knowledge and skills as opportunities to become better at what you do.

"My goals are achievable through persistent effort.": Keep your goals within reach by reminding yourself that they are attainable through persistent, focused effort. Break down big goals into smaller, manageable steps to maintain your motivation.

"I am grateful for the present moment.": In the pursuit of excellence, it's essential to appreciate the present moment. This reminder encourages gratitude, which can boost your overall happiness and well-being.

FAQs about Positive Reminders for Excelling

Q1: How can I create and incorporate positive reminders into my daily routine?

A1: Creating positive reminders is simple. Write them down on sticky notes, set daily reminders on your phone, or create a vision board with visual representations of your reminders. Incorporate them into your daily routine by reviewing them in the morning or before bedtime.

Q2: Can positive reminders really improve my confidence and self-belief?

A2: Yes, positive reminders have the potential to significantly boost your confidence and self-belief. When you consistently reinforce positive messages to yourself, they become ingrained in your subconscious, influencing your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Q3: What if I face moments of self-doubt despite using positive reminders?

A3: It's natural to experience moments of self-doubt. In such moments, revisit your positive reminders to counter negative thoughts. Additionally, reach out to a supportive friend, family member, or mentor who can provide encouragement and perspective.

Q4: Can positive reminders help with achieving specific goals, such as career advancement or weight loss?

A4: Yes, positive reminders can be tailored to address specific goals. By reminding yourself of your capabilities and the steps required to achieve those goals, you can stay motivated and focused on your path to success.

Q5: Are there any drawbacks to using positive reminders excessively?

A5: While positive reminders are generally beneficial, using them excessively to avoid facing challenges or to escape reality can hinder personal growth. It's important to strike a balance between positive reminders and taking action to address real-life issues.

Positive reminders are powerful tools for excelling in life. They shape your mindset, boost your confidence, and help you stay motivated in the pursuit of excellence. By incorporating these reminders into your daily routine and embracing their messages, you can unlock your full potential and achieve the success you desire. Remember that excellence is not an endpoint but a continuous journey, and positive reminders are your companions along the way, guiding you toward greatness.

TAVARIS JACKSON ON THE POSITIVITY OF PETE CARROLL

Everyone that follows football knows that Tavaris Jackson went through so many ups and downs as he never really knew where he stood with the Vikings. He is now starting fresh in Seattle and this is what he had to say about the Seahawk's coaching philosophy:



“Oh yeah, it’s a lot different. Here it’s all about positive feedback. You can appreciate it as a quarterback: All the dog-cussing and yelling really isn’t good when you play this position. You know when you mess up, when you did something wrong. Here, it’s a focus on what you did right and how you can get better. I’m comfortable with that.”