We live in a time of increased anxiety. This may be because we are constantly being inundated with negative messages through the media. In other words, negativity sells! Sociologist tell us that we are naturally drawn to negativity because it helps us to be better prepared for any encroaching disasters.

That being said, all of us have what is referred to as a “fight or flight response”. In other words, we are hardwired from the factory to either stand strong and fight the potential enemy, or to turn around and run away as fast as possible! Unfortunately, there aren’t many places to run to that is outside of the news media’s reach now days.

For instance, if we walk up and eavesdrop on someone else’s conversation, there is a high likelihood that they are conversing about current events, or the state of the economy or potentially gossiping about someone else.

Take social media for example. A social media post or video has a higher likelihood of being clicked on if it has a negative headline attached to it.

In fact, the “clickbait” that we are drawn to is often based off of a negative headline. I sometimes wonder just how often a popular figure’s untimely demise can be announced on Facebook. These types of things continue to make the rounds although they have been proven to be hoaxes many times over!

Rather than just identifying the problem, we should focus on finding solutions that effectively break the cycle of negativity and help prevent victimization.

One thing that really works for me is to gravitate towards the simple things in life. If you have followed my blogs in the past you will know that I am a big advocate of finding joy and beauty in simple things.

To expand on this thought, what do we do if we are in an environment that is so cynical that it begins to take a toll on our mental health? The problem with negativity is that it has an outsized impact on how we view ourselves and the world. I have found that even the most positive person can be dragged down by the drama that continually surrounds them.

My solution? I believe that it is possible for us to have a little glimpse of eternity inside of our hearts! Eternity has us to place everything into its proper context and perspective.

We need to actively know that every situation is temporary. Having a bad day at work? Approach that day with a healthy dose of perspective! The sun will surely come out tomorrow (or the next day if it’s cloudy!)

At the same time, I have wrestled with monsters like the monster of grief when it felt like the pain, hurt and darkness would never resolve. But, guess what? One day I woke up and a little bit of sunshine came in into my soul. It was like the fight response was actively telling me that it was time to move forward and heal because the past danger had begun to subside. Isn’t this a beautiful concept? It is a graceful healing process. The things that worked so hard to drag us down ended up being the things that faded away in the eternal sunshine so that they were no longer so menacing!

In conclusion, while negativity surrounds us and can easily pull us down, the key is to intentionally focus on the positive and embrace a healthy perspective. Every storm, no matter how overwhelming, eventually passes, and understanding this can help us maintain hope even in the darkest moments. The eternal perspective I’ve found helps me see beyond the immediate struggles and recognize that healing and brighter days will come. By prioritizing joy in simplicity and keeping our minds on what truly matters, we can begin to break free from the cycle of negativity.