Forget the small stuff -- be positive and proactive

We have a tendency to get bogged down over stuff that, in the grand scheme of things, isn't all that important. We fret about toxic people who appear to dislike us but are themselves disliked by most people, insignificant gossip that we worry sullies our reputation at work and elsewhere, and being betrayed by even our closest friends.

In other words, we make mountains out of molehills.

Life is short, guys. There is no reason to let such negative thoughts infiltrate your mind.

Worrying constantly about people hurting you is like worrying over your car breaking down on you right before you have to give the biggest presentation of your life, or your wallet being stolen.

There's no use worrying about things so excessively. A better approach is to be proactive so that bad things are less likely to occur.

For example, never deign to join the gossip fray at work and talk behind others' backs. That's just asking to become someone else's target. At the same time, you can take your car in for routine check-ups or become a AAA member so that you can avail or roadside service in the event your car leaves you stranded. Moreover, always make sure you check your purse or pockets for your wallet before you get out of your car.

If you find yourself the subject of someone's lies or rumors, approach them in a tactful manner and make it clear you won't stand for it. If your car breaks down, let your boss know that you'll do everything in your power to make it to that meeting, even if it means leaving the car in a grocery store parking lot and calling a cab. If you find that your wallet has been stolen, contact the police, the banks that service your debit and credit cards, and the credit bureaus.

Life is short and complicated enough as it is. Getting worried about what could be in addition to what is will only add stress, anxiety, and aggravation.

Remember the two Ps, as they will come in handy throughout your life: positive and proactive.

Being proactive helps us avoid negative, unfavorable circumstances. Being positive helps us deal with those situations once there's no way around them.

To get the most out of life, we can't spend all our time mired in negativity and doubt. That's just no way to live!

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