42 msfocusmagazine.org It may seem that some people have the ability stay positive in spite of troubles, and others just don’t. But positivity is a quality that you can develop! Try incorporating these strategies. Reframing: Identify the negative thoughts you have about your situation, and try to look at them in a different light. For example, if you find yourself lamenting that MS has made it difficult for you to accomplish certain things, try looking at the situation as “Every time this disease has gotten in my way, I’ve found a way around it. I’ll find a way around it again.” Finding meaning: Take the question “why me?” and answer it in a way that gives some meaning to your having MS. Why you? Because you are strong enough to fight back and inspire others. Why you? Because you have the passion to become an advocate for people with MS. Why you? So you can appreciate how much love and support surrounds you. Whatever the answer to that question is, make sure it rings true to you. Be real: Having a positive outlook doesn’t mean ignoring your negative feelings. Express them, just don’t get stuck in them. If you find yourself rehashing the negative again and again, be determined to put your focus elsewhere for a while. Talk to a friend and ask what’s going on in their life, then really listen. Or spend time doing something you enjoy. Come back to the problem when you are calm enough to look for realistic solutions. Symptom Management Building a Positive Outlook How do you stay positive in spite of MS? Email your tips to editor@msfocus.org TALK BACK: