There are two important components in life, namely our outlook on life and our attitude towards life.

Our outlook is how we see the world around us and how we interpret what we see.

When we have a negative outlook we see mostly problems, difficulties and threats. We see the dark side in everything. We feel the stress and stress can turn into distress.

When we have a positive outlook on life we see opportunities instead of the problems. We see solutions when problems occur. We see the bright side in everything, even in negative situations.

A negative outlook wastes energy. A positive outlook creates energy.

Our outlook on life has a big impact on the way we live life, the way we approach challenges and even on the length of our life. Many of us, though we may not always recognise it, have developed a negative attitude on life; we expect things to go wrong, we anticipate failure, we predict disaster and we always look on the dark side of things. We feel gloomy or depressed and often we will not attempt new things because we fear or expect to fail.

By becoming more positive and adopting a positive attitude to life, we are more willing and more able to improve things. Instead of expecting to fail or spotting mistakes, we can look at the potentials and see opportunities for success. By being positive, we can enjoy things more and find pleasures in even small things of life. A positive outlook helps give you strength, motivation and opportunities to improve yourself and your life, while at the same enjoying it.

One way to achieve a positive outlook is not to hold grudges but learn to forgive. An unforgiving soul is a dead soul. When someone makes you angry they own your emotions and have the power to make you unhappy. Nobody should have that power. Things done to you may seem huge in your eyes - the person responsible may not even know that you were offended and therefore they don't dwell on it like you do.

Another way is to rid yourself of toxic relationships. Any relationships that cause you hurt, anger, resentment, guilt or anxiety are toxic and you should remove them out of your life. Spend time with people that mean a lot to you. Open up your heart and learn to live a little.

A healthy body is home to a healthy heart. Get your muscles moving, your heart pumping and blood flowing. You'll feel more relaxed, energised and your body will look toned and healthy.

Do pamper yourself as often as you need it. Have some time when you can do something that makes you happy without any interruptions. At the same time, think about things that make you happy and affirm your dreams and goals. Focus on things that you love about your life and things you want to achieve.

Most importantly, stop dwelling on the past and focus on the future that is in your hands. Don't punish the people currently in your life for the mistakes of other people. No two people are the same and nobody should carry the blame for another's mistakes.

A positive attitude will stand you in good stead throughout your life. Good experiences will become better and with time, negative experiences will diminish and eventually disappear. There is always room to become more positive in our outlook on life. We can decide to become more positive in life. It is our choice.