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1. Monitor your self-talk. Are you aware of the inner dialogue you carry on with yourself during your waking hours? Do you say critical and negative things to yourself such as “I am always making mistakes,” or “I am not good enough” “I cannot be any better”," or “I do not look good?” The more frequently these negative thoughts are repeated, the stronger they become.

The first step in overcoming negative self-talk is to become more aware of it. The next step is to replace these self-defeating thoughts with positive and productive ones for example, “I am the best I can be”, instead of saying, “I have a problem,” you should say, “I have an interesting challenge facing me” or “I am faced with an unexpected opportunity” and so forth.

2. Feed your mind positive thoughts. Read at least one motivational or inspirational book each month, e.g. “The road less traveled by M Scott Peck, or “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, or watch movies such as “Pay It Forward” if you prefer, listen to CDs or tapes that provide a positive message by people such as Dwyer.

You might find it helpful to write down on small cards certain positive thoughts that you find especially encouraging. Carry one of these cards with you each day and read it several times during the day.

3. Change your vocabulary. In his bestseller, Awaken the Giant Within, Anthony Robbins tells how he was able to lower the intensity of his anger by changing the words he used to describe his emotional state. Instead of saying he was "angry and upset," he chose to say, "I feel myself getting a 'bit peeved'."

Robbins suggests that when someone asks how are you doing, instead of saying "all right," or “ok” say "superb", “fabulous”. Notice the words you habitually use and replace them with ones that empower you.

4. Make and keep a list of the positive things in your life. Although many people tend to keep a record of major events and accomplishments, it is also important to focus on everyday little things that bring you pleasure – sharing a cup of tea with a friend, listening to a favourite song or spending quiet time by yourself. Count your blessings.

5. Change your routine. Probably, the most common way to add variety to life is to take a vacation. You could also do Simpler things such as changing your normal route to work, who knows, you might see new and interesting things! Take up a new exercise programme, learn to dance!

6. Take time out for yourself on weekends. Keep in mind what psychiatrist and author, Theodore I. Rubin advocates: "A day devoted to ourselves - no strings attached - can be a wonderful morale booster. This is not selfishness; it is just good mental health."