Yesterday, we talked a bit about what we can do when adversity strikes. There is one more piece that needs to be added to the conversation - and it is "conversation" - the one you have with yourself 24/7/365.

Long-time members of the Winner's Circle Network will recall Lou talking (or writing) about "self-talk" - that conversation that each of us has with ourselves, all the time. It is one of the core concepts included in the education provided by The Pacific Institute. In fact, self-talk provides the catalyst for hardening the concrete (our beliefs) that forms the foundation upon which we build our lives.

Now, when adversity strikes, no matter what form that adversity takes, if you can, take a moment and really listen to the words you use to describe the situation. Are you talking about what you can't do, or what you can do? Are you talking about the finality of the situation, or the possibilities for turning it around?

The question really is this: Are you positive or negative in your approach to your future? Most of us don't really listen to the words we use, but we should. We choose words out of habit, sometimes, more than intent. The words we use cause pictures in our minds, and those pictures are flooded with what we are feeling. And these feelings color our moods, our relationships with those around us - everything that makes up our lives.

When adversity hits - whether it is senseless violence, a job loss, a loved one diagnosed with a disease, or something as everyday has a traffic jam - stop, if you can, and listen to what you are saying, either out loud or to yourself. Is this conversation making things worse, or is it making things better? Remember, you do have a choice.