‘Henceforth I ask not good-fortune, I myself am good-fortune.’ ~Walt Whitman

By Leo Babauta

I’m a pretty positive person — I consider it one of the keys to the modest success I’ve had in creating new habits and achieving things in the last few years.

I couldn’t have run three marathons without a positive mindset, nor created Zen Habits, mnmlist, or The Power of Less. I couldn’t have lost 50 lbs., quit smoking, eliminated my debt, or quit my day job.

Positive thinking, as trite as it seems, has changed my life.

I’m not going to sell you on it, but if you’re interested, here’s the condensed guide to changing your own life:

Realize it’s possible, instead of telling yourself why you can’t.

Become aware of your self-talk.

Squash negative thoughts like a bug.

Replace them with positive thoughts.

Love what you have already.

Be grateful for your life, your gifts, and other people.

Every day.

Focus on what you have, not on what you haven’t.

Don’t compare yourself to others.

But be inspired by them.

Accept criticism with grace.

But ignore the naysayers.

See bad things as a blessing in disguise.

See failure as a stepping stone to success.

Surround yourself by those who are positive.

Complain less, smile more.

Image that you’re already positive.

Then become that person in your next act.

Focus on this habit first, and you’ll have a much easier time with any other.