THERE’S always a reason to say “Thank you” before going to sleep. No matter how crappy your day was, there must have been a redeeming factor or two! Instead of thinking of the things you have to do the next day, fall asleep with happy thoughts.

Did you share some chuckles with friends? Did you have a hearty meal? Did you make it to work on time? What compliments did you get today? Did you help anyone? Think of the goodness that came to you in big and small packages. Every good thing adds up to us feeling positive about the day.

And then give thanks to the universe. Instead of counting sheep to fall asleep, count the good things that happened to you today and say thanks for each one of them. You not only recognize the wonderful moments of that day, but you fall asleep in a calm, peaceful, happy mood. Sweet dreams!

WHEN was the last time you dwelled on “What if’s?” We’re familiar with questions that start with those two words. They usually kick in when we think of regrets, things we should’ve done, could’ve done. And the more we would think about the many things that we ought to have done, we just feel worse. Are you familiar with that feeling? I am.

Hindsight is always 20/20, as some people have shared. That is really true. And “what ifs,” while they make the past situation clearer, leaves us feeling more unsettled.

But what if we use these two words in another way? What if we use them as a proactive way, to move forward?

After we’re done saying “What if I could have stopped him from leaving?,” ask “What if I think of ways to move on now?” Instead of “What if I had said this during the meeting?,” ask “What if I push my suggestion in the next?” There’s a subtle difference in wording, but the perspectives are miles apart.

Try using “What if’s” to think of possibilities for tomorrow, not possibilities that could have been. This makes better use of our time and spirit.