Dear Counsellor:

I find your articles to be encouraging, enlightening and informative. I have great difficulties in maintaining a positive attitude. I am a Christian and pray daily.

- Sheila

Dear Sheila:

A positive attitude determines how successive one is in life. You need to make a commitment to yourself and to God to create a positive mindset.

It is easy to be positive when things are going well. When there are problems and trials, it is difficult to have a positive attitude. When things are bad, think of the good times you had. It means that you should celebrate your many blessings and successes. We like to celebrate good times with extravagance but small celebrations are just as good and will cheer you up.

Remember to count your blessings in the good and bad times. Keep a list of the things you cherished and which made a difference. The things may be small items or activities and are very important to you.

Make God the centre of your life and let Him direct your path. Many times, the issues that interest you will bring great benefits to you. God is preparing us for the task ahead. Sometimes things happen that are not clear to us, but later on in life you will see the connections. Many times, we choose paths because of interest and motives and these paths lead us into experiences that are useful.

When you are in the depths of despair, think of God's love and His constant presence. He is always with you and can treat any depression. If you focus on God's mercy and daily companionship, your despair will wane and you will feel better.

Nowadays, they have life coaches, who help people to cope with pressures and stress. A psychiatrist can provide this service.