For most people, feeling overwhelmed, or even carrying negative feelings and thoughts, are easier than looking at the bright side of difficult situations.

The good news is that it is completely possible to train your brain to regulate your negative emotions. It’s never too late to adjust how you handle negative thoughts.

The following is a few tips on how to change your attitude –

1~ Forgiveness. Everyone makes mistakes. At some point in your career you will have a client decide that they don’t require your services, or you will encounter a situation where a colleague messes up a project. Although this may be frustrating, the best thing to do is to address the issue immediately, with tact and respect, and then move on. Don’t continue to bring the problem back up, making them feel bad. Leave it in the past.

2~ Stop the Jealousy. Jealousy is a negative feeling that takes away your energy and focus from your personal goals. It’s important to stop stressing on what others are doing and to stay focused on your own goals and potential. Be supportive of colleagues for their successes, and use them as inspiration for yourself.

3~ Don’t Hold Grudges. It’s part of life to be hurt and disappointed by others, but when you hang on to the anger and hold a grudge, you are the one that’s most affected. Try to look at the problems from the other person’s point of view. After the situation has been addressed, let it go. If this isn’t accomplished then you end up using your energy on the wrong things, which is bad for you, and benefits no one.

4~ Don’t Compare. You may always feel that you are behind if you continue to compare yourself to others. Instead of being full of regret for past decisions and life choices, be proud of how much you have accomplished and where you are going.

5~ Listen to Instincts. Pay close attention to your inner voice on different gut feelings you may experience. Sometimes it’s better to walk away from a situation rather than feel miserable stuck in it. Only you can make the choice to make your life better instead of bitter.

Instead of working in constant negativity, it’s time to alter how you think about and handle tough times – and start living a more positive and fulfilling life.