We shared a wee piece on walking on the sunny side of the street. http://www.cope-scotland.org/index.php/latest-blog/tips-to-feel-more-optimistic-about-the-future. 

Part of the information we were sharing around the Warwick and Edinburgh Mental wellbeing Scales https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/med/research/platform/wemwbs, as a way to begin to become aware of our own wellbeing http://www.cope-scotland.org/index.php/latest-blog/understanding-our-own-wellbeing and areas perhaps we want to give attention to.

Remember, these tips are for self-management, wellbeing promotion. If you need to speak to someone please do, there are many services available. Our ''whit's happening'' magazines on the site list some of these services. If you ever feel so despairing you have thoughts of suicide, please speak to someone. 

The Samaritans are there 24/7 365 Freephone 116 123.

The tips below may offer some ideas to consider if adopting a more optimistic view of the world, is something you may find useful.

As we approach a New Year, it's often a time for resolutions, hoping the next year will be better, and with all that 2020 has brought, we all need to believe that things can get better if we don't look for the sun above the clouds, we run the risk of falling into despair, and the sad thing is, when we begin to despair, the sun can come back…………………...and we no longer care

The list of challenges we have faced, and yes, some people have faced more challenges than others, is long. While we have vaccines on the way, it's still going to take time and a willingness for enough people to take the vaccine before we can truly get back to some kind of normal. 

Until then, challenges do lie ahead, however, choosing what we give our energy to, can make a huge difference in how we address those challenges. Working together, looking for solutions, looking out for each other, will not only make us feel better but help us get through this. Focusing on the negative drains our energy, perhaps makes us not see opportunities, or recognise the hope there still is in the world. 

Being optimistic doesn't mean you don't see the fences, it just means rather than see a barrier, you see a puzzle to be solved, sometimes alone, sometimes with others. 

Regardless of who we are, COVID-19 is having an impact, and for some yes. it may be easier than others to be optimistic, but for all of us, finding a way back to the sunny side of the street is what will help us rebuild a kinder, fairer, world together, we can do this.

Remember you do matter, and people do care, I care

If it can be solved, there's no need to worry, and if it can't be solved, worry is of no use.

Dalai Lama