Lately, every time I turn on the news or look at my computer, I am immediately saddened to see the most recent tragedy that has occurred. It almost seems as if we are constantly surrounded by negativity and hopelessness lately. This can really take a toll on the way we see the world around us.

It is so easy to become cynical and negative, but we lose our precious quality of life when this happens. Even though life isn't always easy and bad things happen every day, it is so important for us to hold on to the one thing we do have control of: our outlook on life. We always have something to be happy about. Here are a few tricks I have found to be helpful when I am trying to stay positive:

1. Surround yourself with good people

Whether it be family, a significant other, or close friends, make sure to have a strong support system that you can lean on when you have a bad day. Nothing is better after a long day than a hug from mom or a long talk with your best friend. I am a firm believer that life is too short to surround yourself with negative people who do nothing but drag you down. Choose wisely and love unconditionally.

2. Take time to relax

Life gets stressful, and in our fast-paced world, we stay oh-so busy. Doing too much all the time and never taking time to unwind is so hard on us, whether it be emotionally, intellectually or physically. Take some time for yourself every once in awhile and enjoy something that makes you happy. Read a book, take a walk, soak in a bubble bath; whatever you need to do in order to feel better and happier.

3. Speak life

Even when something doesn't go your way or someone annoys you, remember the value of speaking kind words to yourself and to those around you. Make a bad grade? Remind yourself that it's just a bump in the road and you'll do better next time if you work harder. Frustrated with your sibling? Remember how lucky you are to have them and tell them you love them. Speaking life will do wonders for our world if we just give it a chance.

4. Laugh

I believe that laughter is the best medicine. Next time you're in a bad mood, watch a funny movie or TV show, or maybe hang out with some friends who always make you laugh. It even helps to laugh at yourself sometimes. Don't take anything too seriously, because life goes by so quickly.

5. Trust God

In the end, it all comes down to God's plan for us. Prayer is something that always makes me feel better, no matter what. It helps me to remember that if we trust God and take comfort in knowing that we are under His hand, then we have everything in the world to be happy about. It's a good life and we are blessed every single day we wake up on this earth. That's something to be pretty positive about if you ask me.