Happy Spring everyone! It’s so good to finally see the daylight well into the evening hours! It’s time again to shed our winter gear and Light-en Up and Power–Up in attitude and spirit.

There is still much uncertainty out there as we turn the corner of this recession. We don’t have much control over what’s happening in the economy or job market, so remember – we can’t rule the world, but we can control our piece of it! Amid all the doom and gloom, uncertainty is the enemy of the heart. We have the power to not just survive, but thrive…in spite of it all! Even though we all get thrown off track now and again, imbalance can lead to change and empowerment -- with the right attitude, power source and light guiding us!

Are you experiencing a time of black out, brown out, or period of low power? Increase your wattage by (re)focusing your energy on your personal journey and no one elses. It’s important to make decisions and choices that are right for you, to set boundaries, and walk through fear to courage. Generosity is a wonderful thing, but not when it comes to our personal power!

Here are 13 of my favorite tips to Turn Up Your Dimmer Switch from darkness -- you know, those negative, toxic people and/or situations -- at work or elsewhere that will help you each day to Power-Up and Light-en Up!
1. Manage your time wisely and strive to do your best each day; revise unrealistic societal, work and family expectations.
2. Be aware of whom and what affects your attitude (both positively & negatively) and make appropriate adjustments. Deflect, deflect, deflect!
3. Listen to your gut for lies, “neg-a-tors” and game-players; be assertive and cut their wattage!
4. Learn to say “no” – to a job offer, new clients, invitations, difficult relationships, etc. that are not a good fit for you or your business.
5. Exercise a minimum of 30 minutes daily.
6. Get rid of the junk and clutter – in your head and in your space! Write it out, talk it out, pray it out.
7. Start your day with a daily dose of peace – treat yourself to at least 10 minutes of inspirational reading, meditation, or prayer each morning.
8. Be NICE! Be thoughtful, appreciative, courteous and fair in your dealings with yourself and other people. Practice positive talk!
9. Are you a toxic virus? Gossip, negativity, jealousies, half-truths…gang up on you and bring you down. Check your motives and flip the switch!
10. Volunteer in your community! Giving your self is a win/win.
11. Turn down the noise! Using cell phones, email and other technology 24/7/365 leave you feeling overwhelmed! Watch less television, fear-based news and reprioritize what is really important to you – “P2P” (face time) – there will never be a substitute for in-person eye contact!
12. Take the time to say “hello” to someone you don’t know! You never know who might be a help to you in the future or vice versa.
13. SMILE! It confuses people… Choose to be happy – make up your mind to succeed!

In the world of “P2P” (people-to-people) let’s not forget – the #1 Relationship to get right is with YOURSELF, first and foremost.

So, keep your power -- over your attitude, thoughts, and behavior – and get ready for the upturn… It’s coming!

Power-Up and Light-en Up! Let your light shine – at home, at work and wherever you go! Be the wonderful, authentic you…The only you that will ever exist! Watch what happens!

OK, all together now, here’s a quick power surge for you… Sing it or hum it with me, “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine...”

Author's Bio: 

Mary Jane (MJ) Paris, Author and President, is the “positive energy” source and founder of Positive Impact Consulting Services, LLC in Shelton, CT. She brings a broad base of experience to her practice gained from more than 25 years in people management, employee development, recruiting, coaching, project management and community leadership.

With a focus on “The Positive Workplace,” MJ and Positive Impact specialize in motivational speaking engagements, leadership/professional development and “Positive-A-Tea ®” team building programs that bring “Positive Energy” to your workplace - Improve attitudes, boost morale, motivation and employee engagement, maximize productivity, improve customer service, teamwork, results…and grow your business!