The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale is one of my favorite books. Um . . . according to Dr. Peale, a positive outlook is essential to a happy, successful life. But what especially interesting about the book are the practical strategies that help maintain an optimistic approach to living, even when, uh, things don’t happen to be going well. He recommends reflection on all the aspects of life that are positive, and cultivating an “attitude of gratitude.” He also recommends positive statements and mental pictures to encourage and motivate and . . . and to replace negative thoughts that come to mind.