We all know fresh air makes us feel good, but even peering out the window or looking at a photo of the great outdoors can help calm your nerves and increase happiness, according to a study from Chonnam National University in South Korea. Viewing nature scenes, such as mountains or forests, activates areas of the brain associated with happiness and positive memories. The longer you look, the bigger the rewards, so let yourself daydream.

Color Cure

Keep a few colored markers or pencils at your desk for a quick art therapy fix. Drawing objects or a place that makes us feel safe and happy reduces anxiety and improves mood, research published in Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association finds.

 The following is from an article on "Ways to Increase your Business Through Networking" written by Jason Evers. I think it is worth the read not only for networking first impressions but way more. Notice your reaction next time you call a family member and the first thing they say is negative, when you run into an acquaintance at the grocery store and they start complaining, when you are at lunch with a friend and they start in on how much they hate their job, their co-workers, their life. Even when you are in a store and the clerk greets you with, "It's so hot" or "I'm so tired." All of these examples are emotionally draining. We don't want to be around these people. We don't want to BE these people. I tend to eliminate these types of positive energy suckers from my life - they do nothing for me and in fact take away from my general happiness and well-being. For the next 24-hours, try to be aware of this, both your own behavior and those around you. It is an eye opener.

  

"Be aware of your opening statements when meeting someone for the first time. At this particular point in time, you have the ability to steer the conversation in any direction.

For example; someone steps up to you at a networking event and introduces himself. You both exchange the normal hellos and the next thing out of your mouth is, "Man I can't believe the turnout here, I was told this was a great group and there is barely anyone here."

By doing this you are guaranteed two things; one you are forgettable, and two this conversation will go down a negative unproductive road - GUARANTEED!

Why not take this approach, "I heard this was a great group, that couldn't be more true! I've met so many great people already! With this terrific weather were having, I wasn't sure that anyone would be here."

You notice with an opening like this you are sure two things are going to happen, One you put a positive spin on what some may feel as a let down, and two your conversation will start on a most positive subject the terrific weather."