On Living Positively

I've been invited to take part in a blogger event sponsored by Coca-Cola next week. (Super! Excited!) One of the cornerstones of Coke's philosophy is Live Positively. I've asked myself the question-- Do I live positively?

The honest answer is I'm trying.

Living positively is not something that comes naturally for me. I have struggled with negative self, body image since I was a teenage years and that negativity had spilled over into other aspects in my life. When you view yourself as "not worthy" of good things, it's hard to live positively.

Two years ago, I was diagnosed with an auto-immune disease. My perspective on life and the way that I live it changed drastically. I've learned that in order to live life to the fullest, I would have to let go of the negativity and embrace positivity. I had to change my attitude about myself and the body that I live in.

I take practical steps towards living a more positive life.

I take care of my body. I exercise daily, allowing myself one day of rest. Moving and pushing my body has made me stronger physically (and helped me lose 59 pounds!) I run, I lift weights, I take Zumba classes. I also play outdoors with my children. Riding bikes, basketball with the teenagers, etc.

I surround myself with friends and family who are loving and supportive. I try to spend as much time with those people as possible-- Dinner, dancing, eating good food, getting the kids together. Life is good when you're surrounded by good people.

I treat myself kindly. This may sound cheesy and I'm okay with that. I spent most of my teenage and adult life putting myself down. I decided I may not be the most fabulous person on the planet, but I am deserving of love and kindness.

I'm looking forward to attending this event with Coca-Cola and would love to be able to take some of your questions with me. If you have any questions you'd like for me to ask on your behalf, please leave your question in the comment section and I will do my best while I'm there to get an answer for you.

(Disclosure: I have been compensated by BlogHer for writing this post. Additionally Coca-Cola will be paying for my travel, lodging and activities while in Atlanta.)