I believe it's one of the biggest problems facing our society today. Everywhere I go people are overworked, overtired and overstressed. There's so much we want to see, do and accomplish but unfortunately we’re running on empty!

As a result we search for the energy to finish our projects, run and grow our business, take care of the kids, make dinner and get through the day. That’s why there is a coffee shop on every corner and energy drinks are flying off the shelves. But as we know the quick fixes do not last. We're consuming more caffeine than ever and yet more people are more tired than ever.

We need a different kind of energy to fuel our productivity, performance and success. We need positive emotional energy.

Each day we can generate positive emotions that uplift and inspire us and make us feel great. Instead of allowing negative events and circumstances to dictate how we feel and act, research shows we can take control of our emotional state, generate positive emotions through our thoughts, beliefs and actions, and change our circumstances.

Research shows that by continually generating positive emotions we can train our mind and body to be more positive, more resilient to stress, and more emotionally energized. I have found in my own life and in my work with many others that generating a positive emotional state, like anything else, is a habit and a skill. The more we do it the easier and more natural it becomes. Here are a few of my favorite habits to generate positive emotions.

1. Take a "Thank you Walk" in the Morning - Research shows that when we count our 3 blessings a day we get a measurable boost in happiness that uplifts us and energizes us. Combine gratitude and walking and you get a double boost of energy that recharges you mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. I do this daily. It works!

2. Smile and Laugh - People love when we smile and so do our brains and bodies. It sounds simple but many of us are not smiling and laughing enough. We were born to smile and laugh. Smiles and laughter causes our brain and body to produce "positive" neuro-chemicals, hormones and endorphins that uplift and energize us. Make it a habit.

3. Pray and Meditate - Research shows they reduce stress, boost positive energy and promote health, vitality and longevity. Facing a challenge at work or at home, stop, be still, and recharge with the ultimate power.

So if you enjoy your cup of coffee in the morning I say ENJOY IT. But while you are drinking it put a big smile on your face, be thankful, think of something funny and let your positive emotions provide you with a sustained boost of energy.

Jon Gordon is a leading authority on developing positive, engaged people, leaders, schools, businesses and teams. He is the author of The Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel your Work, Live and Team with Positive Energy, The 10-Minute Energy Solution and Energy Addict: 101 Ways to Energize Your Life. Jon's proven solutions are being put to use by people and organizations worldwide and his tips have been featured on CNN, the NBC Today Show, Men’s Health, Forbes, Positive Thinking Magazine, and more. He is also the co-founder of PEP- The Positive Energy Program, which creates and funds programs that develop healthy, positive children around the world. Learn more and sign up for Jon’s free weekly energy tip newsletter at www.JonGordon.com