Positive Vibes ONLY

Written by:  Kiaryne Ramos, KBEP Intern

So the new school year has begun and you’re thinking to yourself, “this year I want to be different, I want to get away from all of the negative energy that has been surrounding me.”
Well, did you ever stop to think that maybe you are the one attracting those unhealthy vibes? You might want to think about your choices and the subsequent consequences that you may not have intended. There are a few ways that unwanted vibes might come your way:
Destructive Friendships: How do I know the difference between a good friend and a bad friend?
Here are some ways to tell if your “friend” is not really your friend:
● They put conditions on your friendship by saying things like “I will only be your friend if you…” and “I won’t be your friend anymore if you hang out with…”
● Conversations with them usually consist of making fun of others.
● They pressure you into doing things you don’t really want to do.
● They hate to see you doing better than them with grades, sports, relationships, etc.
A real friend won’t try to change you into who they want you to be; they will accept you for who you are. And real friends want what is best for you, so they should be happy to see you succeed.
Self-Image: How can I change this?
You may be feeling down about yourself, but instead of improving yourself, you might try to feel better by putting others down. Instead of putting others down, LOVE YOURSELF. Sometimes it may be easier said than done, so try these tips:
● Find quirky things that you like about yourself and remind yourself of those traits
● Improve your self-esteem so you can continue the cycle of positivity
(Follow this link for great tips on how to improve your self-esteem http://www.positivityblog.com/index.php/2013/09/11/improve-self-esteem/)
● Seek help/go to a counselor. They can help you to work through some of your insecurities as long as you are open and willing to it.
● Always remember that absolutely NO ONE is perfect!
Attention Seeking
You may find yourself saying negative comments or doing things that are out of character in order to gain attention from a particular person. Negative comments and actions will most likely bring about negative responses.
● Rather than commenting on things that you don’t like, compliment others on the things that you do like.
● If you are doing negative things and getting positive attention from someone, that person may not be someone you really want attention from.
● Instead, do good deeds, help others, focus on your self-image and improving yourself mentally, spiritually and/or physically. In doing so, you will receive the same positive energy back!

It’s never too late to turn over a new leaf. So try some of these tips to make this school year one full of #PositiveVibesOnly.