Start living the good life today with better attitude

"Taking paths which He prepared ahead of time, that we should walk in them living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live."

- Ephesians 2:10 (AMP).

As I looked over the words, "living the good life," I thought about all the things we wish and hope for that make up a good life. Although there is nothing wrong with our hopes and dreams for a better tomorrow, we can start "living the good life" today.

I really like the quote, "Today is a good day for a good day." Since sharing this quote, a few friends and I have been trying to keep this in focus. We start by reminding each other today is a good day for a good day.

Now, I'm not suggesting being uncompassionate to a troubling situation, but after we have vented and prayed, we turn our thoughts for God to work out things for the good.

I've had many times in my life where I felt overwhelmed with troubling situations that seemed impossible to handle. All I could do was pray for God to work them out for the good. And I learned that's when we have to purpose ourselves to find some good.

But how do we live the good life when we are up to our neck in troubles that look impossible to overcome? We can start by asking ourselves a simple question: Do we normally see the cup as half full or empty?

Many people have a negative perspective on life, grumbling and complaining way too much. If we started to look at our blessings, even as few or simple as they may be, it can light the way to inner joy and creative new ideas.

As a nurse, I have heard time and again that a positive attitude does wonders for alleviating stress-related illnesses. Since health is a major goal in our society today, and people spend billions of dollars trying supplements, exercise and remedies, a positive attitude is one remedy you can take for free.

If you have a job, no matter what it is you do or what you're paid, you're ahead of many in this world who don't. And if you don't have a job, there is hope for a door to open by keeping that positive attitude; a better one can come by having a positive perspective as well.

Sharing time with family or friends is something we should appreciate. Friends provide companionship, help, and support through encouraging words. It's more fun to watch a movie with someone you love than alone. If you have a faithful pet, that is a friend and a good thing.

Common sense is something we can embrace. Common sense helps us make better choices toward that good life. Letting go of the petty disagreements and opinions we have with others improves our lives.

Heated arguments over toothpaste tops being left off, socks on the floor, and cluttered countertops can cause chaos and frustration. A little forgiveness and a pleasant reminder goes further than a fight to the finish.

God prepared a path to the good life. Let's discover it by counting our blessings and keeping a good attitude.

• Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, speaker, life coach and nurse. She is available to speak at your church group, or business. She can be contacted at annetteebudzban@aol.com