Why is it so much easier to go into the dark than it is to go into the light?

I think, largely we surround ourselves with people that enjoy gossip and seeing people struggle, versus choosing to surround ourselves with people that truly enjoy seeing others succeed and getting all that they want out of life.

For whatever reason, it seems easier to counsel someone when they’re having a difficult time than celebrate someone when they’re enjoying all the successes that they deserve.

Noticing this further, I recently got back from a conference of very successful people, and I was amazed at the split:

• Those who truly were happy for how well others were doing
• Those who truly felt the need to express how successful they are (and why they should be adored)
• And then, those who were struggling and open to a conversation about how they can improve themselves, their businesses, and their lives

I haven’t always felt this way, but I most certainly do today.

I choose to focus on the positive things, to express my happiness, my joy, and my appreciation to those around me.

I choose to offer a helping hand or a sympathetic ear when it’s needed, doing my best to uplift others.

If we surround ourselves with positive people that are choosing to win, then we win.

But if we surround ourselves with people that choose to talk down on others or play into the negativity, then we become that, too.

It’s not an easy decision (although it should be), but it’s one that does need to be made every day.

As I sat at breakfast with a friend and client of mine this morning, he shared his child’s most recent challenges. He’s two years of age but still unable to walk on his own, completely undiagnosed.

My friend feels incredible frustration and fear that his son one day will never be able to have the life that he wants him to have.

And then just two weeks ago, his son became very sick and almost died. My job in this relationship today is to sit and listen, be a friend, and give guidance when asked.

When we walked away, he simply said, “Thank you for your friendship, and thank you for always being willing to listen.”

Let’s all make a conscious effort to choose to be the light in someone’s darkness.

-J.D.