We all want to be happy in life, and in order to make that happen, it's important to develop a positive attitude and try to eliminate the negative one. However, for some odd reason, it seems like it's easier to look at the negative side of life instead of focusing on what makes life worth living. So, how can we establish a more positive attitude? Here's how!

Be Grateful
Instead of complaining about what you lack, try to appreciate what you have and learn to value it. Count your blessings and be grateful for all the good things you have in life. This is the first step toward happiness.

Be an Optimist
Every time you fail, see this as an opportunity to improve and be better in life. Try to forget the phrase, “I give up,” and always believe that there's something better in store for you. Once you start practicing a positive attitude, success will automatically follow.

Don't Compare
Nothing is more awful and stressful that comparing yourself with others. If you think you're better than someone, it's an unhealthy sign of superiority. On the other hand, if you demean yourself in front of others, it means that all of your progress and hard work in life are useless. Social comparisons can never help you become a better person, however, self-improvement is different. Try to improve yourself-- not to be better than others, but to be better for your own self.

Be Kind
Are you aware that every time you help someone, serotonin in your brain are being released? It's the hormone that controls your mood and that's the main reason why you feel good every time you offer a hand. Flush out those toxins of depression by doing an act of kindness regularly.

Learn to Smile and Laugh
Smile and the whole world will smile at you. Even when you're having a hard time, try your best to smile and don't let those worries drag you down. Likewise, try to laugh whenever you can-- just like what they say, laughter is the best medicine. For instance, if you did something wrong or foolish, don't be hard on yourself, laugh at your mistakes and learn how to take things lightly.

Forgive and Forget
Hatred is a negative feeling that's packed with negative effects-- it can affect your well-being, people around you, and how you look at life. Stop thinking how much you hate someone, but learn to let go. If possible, try your best to forgive others and don't take things seriously, or it'll affect your system.

Stay Committed to Your Goals
Each and everyone of us has a set of goals that we want to achieve. Know that anything is achievable, as long as you stay dedicated. In fact, diligence together with dedication can yield extraordinary results.

Treasure Relationships
What keeps us alive and kicking? The relationship we have with others. A loving family, a circle of friends that you can trust, supportive colleagues, are just some of the constant reminders that you have people who care so much about you. Nothing beats having someone to share your experience with-- whether good or bad. So, what are you waiting for? Nurture these relationships and say goodbye to depression.

Spirituality
Life is bigger than us, and spirituality helps us connect to the larger meaning of life-- the reason of our existence. Practice spirituality and this will help you realize that everything is connected.

Don't Let Negativity Swallow You
It's true that negativity can be contagious, but you shouldn't allow it to change your way of thinking. There's a number of strategies on how you can reinforce positivity even in difficult situations. For instance, always look at the brighter side of life and know that the bad situation will eventually end.

Expect Some Ups and Downs
Life will never be perfect, expect some ups and downs on your day-to-day life. This is what makes your life special and something to look forward to.

Care for Your Body
Your body is your temple, and you must love yourself and your body. Stay fit and healthy, in order to achieve happiness.

Lastly, surround yourself with positive people and disconnect to those who drag you down and make you feel useful. Be kind to others and don't let mean-spirited people control your life.

So there, you have it. For a happy life develop an optimistic attitude and everything else will follow.

Author's Bio: 

My name is Frans Bouckenooghe, born in Roeselare, Belgium.
In 1980, I immigrated with my Rarotongan (Cook Islands) wife Tangata and two children to New Zealand.
I am a self employed Registered Building Surveyor. I identify and report on building defects. I love my work.
Besides work, I enjoy company of family and friends, travelling, writing and photography.

I believe that little can be accomplished in life without some investment in yourself. Keep fit, consume right, practice kindness, remain positive, and keep your curiosity up. Treat these things as similarly important to love and friendship and I think you have a much better chance to lead a happy life.

For more inspirational and motivational reading visit my websites and facebook page

http://www.spiritualsuspense.com
http://www.primewellnesslink.com
www.facebook.com/motivationahead

Take care.......Frans