Life can be tough sometimes, there is no doubt about that. We can’t always control the situations that impact our day-to-day, but we can control the approach that we view each new day with. Positive thinking is the act of intentionally being more optimistic no matter what stressors occur in our lives. While this isn’t always 100% possible, the decision to focus on positive thinking can quickly bring very real benefits. The way we think controls the lens through which we view the world around us, and positive thinking brings a brighter focus. Not to mention that the energy we put out into the world is often matched when brought back to us. But how can one become a positive thinker? We share a few helpful tips here.
See The Good
There are a lot of annoyances that are easy to notice throughout the day. Getting cut off in traffic, getting mud on your favorite shows, every pump at the gas station being taken, and a thousand other things all fight for our attention. But there are just as many little good things that occur each day. A cooling breeze, an extra chicken wing in our order, a friendly conversation. Take the time to notice the positive and let it uplift your world.
Give Gratitude
Each day will have its ups and downs, but at the end of it all there are always things that we can be thankful for. Showing gratitude for our work, family, friends, pets, health, meals, and more helps us continue to appreciate the basic beauties in life even when we are feeling down. These are all things that are worthy of giving thanks, but the action of doing so benefits us just as much as them.
Cherish Good Moments
Do you feel that you take the time to appreciate the good moments while you are in them? Positive moments are often described as “fleeting” as it would be impossible for them to last forever. So instead of taking good days for granted, we need to cherish them and bask in the positivity. Good moments can also be cherished after they’ve already occurred and still bring back plenty of joyful memories.
Train Your Brain
Never forget that the brain is a muscle ready to be exercised. The best part is we can focus on creating a positive experience while doing so! Expand your positive thinking by studying uplifting words, writing encouraging messages for yourself, and keeping positive flash cards on you for extended moments of good vibrations.
Appreciate Yourself
One action that can quickly lead to a more negative way of thinking is when we beat up on ourselves. There are hundreds of accomplishments that we finish each day, yet it’s easy to think of all the things that we could have done better. Take time to appreciate yourself for each day’s successes and make sure that you aren’t accidentally minimizing all that you’ve accomplished.
Positive thinking may seem like a farfetched idea that is only reserved for the bubbliest of personalities, but all it takes is a little practice! You’ve already started the journey - keep it up!
Cover image from Andrea Piacquadio
