SELF-LOVE IS THE HAPPY ELIXIR

ALL IT TAKES IS SOME GRATITUDE TO FLICK THE SWITCH IN YOUR BRAIN FROM NEGATIVE TO POSITIVE SO HARNESS THIS SUPER POWER AND BOOST YOURSELF EACH DAY

- KATRIEL COSTELLO

No one wants to be bossed, or hectored, or to read well-meaning words your eyes just end up gliding over. We're not in the market for snake oil or woo-woo but even the most realistic among us are open to a little magic - and science - to lift us out of the trough into which life sometimes flings us. For creatives and sole traders, silver linings are often DIY, which is why Instagram is crammed with quotes on how to be our best selves', (for many, a cue to shrink into tortoise mode). So, ignore Insta's uninspiring commands and instead embrace the alchemy of switching your attitude to one of self-gratitude and kindness.

I'll start. Thank you for reading this article. Now, your turn. Thank yourself for reading it. Then feel the warm nourishing glow in your solar plexus. Feels nice, doesn't it? A study by Berkeley University in 2018 suggested shining the spotlight on what makes us grateful releases serotonin and dopamine — and they are real performance enhancers. It also lights up the part of your brain that's the master of learning and problem-solving. Just ask Holly from Rock on Ruby (www.rockonruby.co.uk): As a small business, we celebrate little wins, like great customer feedback or photos of people raving about our product. When we're feeling motivated and proud of what we do, it comes through in all parts of our daily work.” Reframe your thinking to consider a thank you as your own personal propeller.