Negativity is around every corner and is constantly occurring. Every time I turn on the news something negative is being broadcasted about someone or something. In the past I have been more than guilty of surrounding myself with negative people. This led to the saying "you're the product of your environment" ringing true.

As someone who struggles with anxiety, negativity can take a large toll on me. One small upset in my life can send me in a downward spiral. I can remember constant nights of letting the tiniest things get to me. I would lay in bed, wide awake, worrying over things I had no control over. When I allowed myself to be surrounded by others with negative attitudes my anxiety would heighten.

Inside I am a happy person who wants to see the brighter side of things. Many people have often told me that they know when I'm upset because I'm not laughing or being my upbeat self. Over the years I have realized that I love how happy I am. When I was a negative person before (and when I occasionally am now) I just feel uneasy. I know inside that it's not who I really am.

When I realized that I'd rather be happy than anything else is when I decided to overlook negativity. I've embraced the idea of letting things "roll off like water on a duck's back". My dad always tells me that if I have no control over something then there is no use worrying over it (this has become my daily mantra). I have no control over how others act so I shouldn't let it bother me.

Now everyday when I wake up, I do so with a smile. I try to always have a positive outlook in every situation (though it is hard at times). I have realized that everyone encounters so much negativity so I can at least be a small ray of light for them. I encourage you to do the same. Try to see the best in everyone and look for the silver linings.