“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”

We all face drama in various forms every day. It is not always easy to change your perspective to remain positive. Someone is upset…things aren’t going as planned…why don’t people communicate clearly…I got a flat tire on my way to work. Sometimes this might all be in one day! As Captain Jack Sparrow so wisely shares, “The problem is not the problem. Your attitude about the problem is the problem.”

In life, nothing is "wrong" or "right" (rare circumstances aside). "Wrong" and "right," especially in regards to where you want to go in life, are relative terms. Too often, we think of "success" or "doing what we love" as an end. It is some destination that we have to reach. What so many people fail to realize is that both of those terms are more of an approach to the journey, not the end of the journey itself. You are "successful" when you are walking your path, always learning, always growing. You are "doing what you love" when you see every moment as an opportunity. It is up to you discover what that opportunity is.

“If it is to be it is up to me.” — Unknown

The reason why so many people struggle with this is because it means taking accountability. It is so easy at work or even somewhere you enjoy being and say, "This place isn't giving me enough. It's not making me grow." This is actually blaming other people for how you feel, or your personal issues. Just like a mirror, if you point, your reflection will point back. Here are a few strategies to change your perspective when you feel caught up in drama.

Change Your Perspective by Changing Your Inputs. In order to change your perspective, you need to change your emotional and mental inputs. Find sources of positive influence such as books, blogs, and positive people you know. Do not rely solely on sources of information that focus on the undesirable things happening in our world. Find podcasts and news feeds dedicated to sharing positive news. You can even influence what comes across your social media feed by choosing not to interact with people whose news feeds are littered with negativity. Be your own resource for positive messaging by using affirmations and pay attention to your self-talk.

Manage Your Expectations. Upset comes from unmet expectations. It is disappointing when we think someone is going to do something and they do not follow through. We cannot control what someone else does. However, we can better manage our own expectations by being clear in your communication of expectations and avoid making assumptions to reduce drama in your life caused by unmet expectation.

Acknowledge When Something is Not Permanent. There is a lot in life that we are unable to change. Thankfully, many of the daily dramas that we face are temporary. The terrible traffic you were sitting in earlier — now you are not. The family member that seems to always find ways to say hurtful things —you can choose to limit your time with that person. Although you cannot change the behaviors or attitudes of others, you can change your perspective to recognize that the drama does not have to last any longer than you let it.

“It’s not how you look. It’s what you see.”  — Unknown

Look For The Benefit. Always look for the positive in a situation, although it may not necessarily be obvious. You will need to put the effort into seeking it out. Perhaps a change in your perspective can create a new opportunity for you.

The Takeaway. Research indicates, that it takes up to six positive thoughts to counteract one negative thought. Since happiness is something found within us, by creating a change in your perspective, you can have a profound impact on your own happiness. It is up to you create moments of growth and opportunity, by shifting your perspective and that makes all the difference.