Join a worthwhile movement this upcoming September 13th as the nation celebrates the power of having a cheerful outlook on National Positive Thinking Day. It is on this day that we can all experience how effective a positive outlook can truly be. Numerous medical studies have shown that people with a positive attitude are healthier than those who are more pessimistic. Research has also shown that these individuals even fight illness more effectively than others, especially because they manage stress more easily than those who look at life more negatively. People with an “I can do it” attitude are far more likely to succeed at work and in accomplishing the goals they set in life. They also happen to be more pleasant to be around because they bring happiness to all with whom they interact. Intrigued by the power of positivity? Read on for five effortless steps you can take to become a more positive person.
Positive Thinking Step #1: Change the way you talk to yourself. According to Calm.com, there are numerous ways you can change your inner dialogue to reflect a more positive mindset. For example, instead of using “I can’t do X, Y or Z,” try saying, “I now have the opportunity to gain experience on how to do X, Y or Z.” Here are a few other ways to switch your inner script:
- “I don’t have time.” ➝ “I have enough time for the things that matter most to me.”
- “It’s too hard.” → “I can take small steps to make this more manageable.”
- “Nobody likes me.” → “I am valued and appreciated by those who matter.”
- “I always make mistakes.” → “Every mistake is a learning opportunity.”
- “I can’t do this.” → “I can do anything I focus on and commit to.”
Positive Thinking Step #2: Embrace those who are already positive. Oftentimes, you are indeed the company you keep. If you often put yourself around negative people, eventually, that negativity is going to rub off on you. Surround yourself with a positive tribe that looks at the world in a more positive manner. This could mean distancing yourself or setting boundaries from people who are negative. However, just because someone is not in a positive headspace does not mean you have to sever your relationship with them forever; just until you feel like you have the mental bandwidth to engage with them. Do not forget to also be careful with what social media you consume, too. Make sure those you are following are also in a positive mindset. Otherwise, you could quickly become a “doom-scroller” which is not a fun place to be.
Positive Thinking Step #3: Give back to those who are in need. Giving back to your community is an excellent way to continue a positive mindset. Volunteering can help you and your family connect with those with similar values and beliefs. From helping a soup kitchen with your church or youth group, to having your child help pull weeds for an elderly neighbor, these small acts can have an incredible effect on not only you, but your local community, as well. You will also serve as an excellent role model for younger generations. When kids see how profound an effect your positive action can make, they will also be more likely to want to help the community feel more positive about themselves.
Positive Thinking Step #4: Incorporate positive thinking with exercise. It is true that the more active one is, the happier he or she feels. This is partially due to the chemicals released during exercise; however, exercising can also be a wonderful time to incorporate positive affirmations. While you take a simple walk around the neighborhood, try saying at least one positive affirmation to yourself, like, “Every day, in every way, I am getting better.” Exercising is also an excellent way to surround yourself with new individuals who also may be working on their own positive outlook.
Positive Thinking Step #5: Focus on what you can control, and let go of what you cannot. As I often tell my two little ones, there will be times when we need to channel our inner Elsa (from Frozen), and “Let it Go!” There is power in knowing that you cannot solve every problem, nor should you. From our darkest moments, we experience our largest growth. There will always be relationships, situations and circumstances we cannot change. Part of being a positive person is being able to realize it is okay to let things and/or people go that cannot be changed.
