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Three Ways to Become a Super Person

Have you seen the billboard with Christopher Reeve with the caption “Superman” underneath it? You might remember him for his timeless portrayal of Superman, but did you know after a life-changing accident, he led a tireless crusade on behalf of the disabled? Here are some of the qualities that made him so strong on and off screen:

Courage. Most of us shy away from a challenge. Maybe we don’t like confrontation, or maybe we just want to take the path of least resistance. No matter how we may try to avoid it, there comes a time when we, individually, must face our deepest fears. It could be accepting a job that moves you halfway across the country. Or walking out on a relationship that should have ended years ago. Whatever is keeping you from enjoying your life needs to be examined, evaluated, and conquered. No one’s going to do it for you. Be brave.

Optimism. Ever hear the old glass half full/half empty analogy? Well, it’s true. You have a 50/50 chance of being positive or negative. Which side do you find yourself on most of the time? Negative thinking may be a very hard habit to break, but the good thing is, it can be remedied. How? Speak positively. Act positively. Consciously replace negative self-talk with compliments and uplifting messages that you can tape to your mirror and day planner. Before you know it, you hopefully will begin to think positively as a new habit. Action precedes attitude. A good attitude is contagious, so surround yourself with people who are upbeat and encouraging.

Self-determination. Where do you see yourself in one year? Five years? 15 years? A person without a goal is like a bus without a driver. Don’t let limitations, either real or perceived, keep you from your objective. Don’t listen to naysayers, even if at times you think they must be right. If something is important to you, stick with it. You will be amazed at what you can do!

There is a bit of a superhero in all of us. Sometimes, it takes an unexpected event to bring that hero out. And sometimes, all it takes is a courageous first step.