LOVE, Kloudiia

When you look at this photo, what do you see? If you see the word FROWN first, then you’re like me! What does this say? I’m no psychologist, just that my mind tends to make some relations and so-called “insights” into things that I observe and take meaning from. In this case, I feel that if you’re like me who first notices the FROWN, could it be that we’re the group who see the cup as half-empty instead of half-full. In other words, are we more pessimistic than optimistic?

That’s sad to own up, isn’t it? But to me, it’s about know oneself well enough and acknowledging our weakness. Instead of limiting us, it actually empowers us because when the level of awareness is high, only then can we execute change. When we’re aware of our natural tendencies, we’re on the alert to any negative thoughts that will sneak in. But they won’t catch us unprepared anymore, because we’re aware. Before the negative thought has a chance to lay root in our mind and give birth to more devilish young ones, we nip it in the bud and throw them away to the far universe.

In this case, when I spotted FROWN, I eliminated them from my vision and focused on the surrounding letters to make out what they mean. SMILE appears and comes into focus, and it remains as my focus. I see the textural differences between the two, and notice how sturdy and determined SMILE stands in relation to FROWN. The characters are like five soldiers–brave and intelligent–standing in sentry announcing their dedication to me, telling me that I’ll be secure in them forever, when I choose to focus and believe that good things will come and prevail.

I always tell my coaching clients, and I’ve written this in my book, that whatever you choose to focus grows. And whatever you choose to believe will become true for you. So, be careful of what you wish for, focus on and believe in.

You have a choice. Mine looks like the favourite choice of everyone’s too. See! SMILE!

In case you’re wondering, this is the first of a series of art campaign – Think Positive. Act Positive by the Health Promotion Board, Singapore. This sculpture was exhibited in Vivo City on 6 Auguust 2010.