From TCNEWS
Amid Nigeria’s mounting economic challenges, Chief Richard Harrison, Economic and financial expert and Chairman of Harrison Goodness Foundation (HGF), has called on Nigerian youths, parents, and government officials to embrace a spirit of resilience and positivity by celebrating Upsy Daisy Day today, June 8.
The term “upsy-daisy” historically symbolizes encouragement, especially when helping someone who has fallen. The day reminds us that attitude is a choice and that by choosing positivity, we become more resilient, healthier, and more productive.
In a stirring message made available to our correspondent via Whatsapp, Chief Harrison urged citizens to adopt a positive mindset as a means to counter daily struggles, economic stress, and the rising wave of national despondency.
“We must learn to wake up each day with hope, not despair. Positivity is not just an emotional luxury, it is a survival strategy in these trying times,” he stated.
“Nigeria is currently grappling with high inflation, youth unemployment, and social unrest. For many families, daily living has become a battle against economic instability and mental strain”, Chief Harrison, who is also a respected community development advocate stated.
He stressed that mental wellness and positive thinking are not secondary issues, they are foundational to national development, adding, “The government must not only provide physical infrastructure but also support mental infrastructure. National policies should integrate wellness education in schools and civic programmes to instill hope and proactive thinking among youths”.
To mark the day, Chief Harrison offered several practical suggestions for individuals and communities which includes giving back to the society, starting one’s day with gratitude, practicing self-care and speaking kindly to people.
“Research has consistently linked a positive outlook to better health. Studies show that optimism can reduce blood pressure, boost immune function, improve cardiovascular health, enhance learning and adaptability and decrease risk of depression and stress:
“Even in an environment as tough as ours, we can choose to focus on solutions. A positive mind gives you the strength to fight back,” Harrison noted.
Beyond citizens, Harrison also issued a challenge to policymakers and educational institutions.
“Incorporate psychological resilience and emotional intelligence into school curricula. Let young Nigerians grow up knowing that they are not powerless, even if the system seems to fail them sometimes.”
He further encouraged state and federal ministries to recognize Upsy Daisy Day and similar global observances as opportunities to foster national morale and psychological strength.
Although Upsy Daisy Day is not a public holiday, Chief Harrison insists that the spirit behind the day is critical, especially now.
“As Nigerians and the rest of the world face turbulent times, we may not control the global economy, but we can control our mindset. If we rise each morning believing in better, we are already halfway there. Hope is not just a feeling, it is a decision”.
Upsy Daisy Day, observed every year on June 8, is an international awareness day founded in 2003 by American wellness advocate Stephanie West Allen. The day encourages individuals to approach life with cheerfulness, humour, and an optimistic outlook, regardless of life’s difficulties.
