Each of my days begin with a positive affirmation.  As the day moves forward I take whatever opportunity to reflect on this affirmation.  One affirmation that sticks in my mind for this week is faith vs. fear.  Faith in this context does not have to mean religion but could mean hope and optimism about the future.

Each day we make a choice to live our days based on faith or based on fear.  Faith or hope is a positive perspective. Fear is negative.  And these perspectives are mutually exclusive.  If you have one, you will not have the other.

For those who struggle with managing anxiety and depression this intention to choose faith over fear is an everyday challenge.  It is a challenge, though, that is worth all of your effort.  However you start your day (positive or negative) is really how your day will go.

If you wake up thinking negative thoughts, practice one of your tools.  A visualization, deep breathing, exercise, a positive affirmation, reviewing your list of positive qualities, or focusing on the goal you want to accomplish today.

Behind my desk is a collage of positive affirmations and notes that people have sent to me over the years.  When I am struggling with my value and worth or focusing more on fear, I review these statements.  And it makes a difference.  It changes my perspective to one of faith.  And faith helps me breathe which in turn helps me focus on who I speaking with next.

You may want to consider doing something similar.  Make a collage of compliments you received, notes clients have sent, your accomplishments, a picture that helps you breathe.  Place it somewhere you can see it on a regular basis (in a drawer, posted on your computer, on your phone).  And when you struggle with faith or fear, reflect on this collage and believe what you are reading.

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Tina L. O’Connor, MS, NCC is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has a private counseling practice in Parkesburg. Tina attended college in Phoenixville and West Chester. Tina and her husband Doug have three amazing adult stepchildren and two beautiful grandchildren. Tina can be reached at Experience Positive Therapy via telephone at (610) 857-8089 or email at exppostherapy1@verizon.net.

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Top photo credit: Hope – Hoffnung via photopin (license)