How to stay cheerful

I am asked time and again, "How do you stay so positive and cheerful?" This is a question I will try to answer as best I can. Living with two chronic diseases, it most certainly isn't easy, and I have to admit there are occasions when it all gets just a bit too much, even for me. No one can remain smiling and happy every moment of each day, it's not possible and quite frankly it would be a farce. Luckily most of the time I manage to keep a sunny disposition and have a smile on my face. I have been this way since I was a child, so it is deeply inherent. I think some people are simply born with a positive outlook, (or as I refer to it, having the "happy gene") but I believe one can make a conscious decision to put on a brave face, smile and look at the glass half full. There are many things in life we have no control over, and most certainly ill health is one of them. By changing your mindset, and vanquishing any negative feelings, not allowing yourself to indulge or wallow in self-pity; find your inner strength and focus on good thoughts and things you have been blessed with. No one wants to be around a grumpy sour faced moaner, so if this is you, change your attitude before you find yourself quite alone. You have the power and ability to wake up this morning and decide, enough moaning and complaining; make a change in your approach and you'll find life will be much easier. Don't get me wrong, you'll still have Parkinson's and your symptoms and medications will be exactly the same, but you'll find your positive vibes will start to have an effect on all those around you which will ultimately bounce right back at you. Your doctor will have more empathy for you, and family and friends will genuinely want to spend time with you.