Positivity is a powerful weapon in the fight against failure, depression and a general negative outlook, and actually helps you to live a happier and more fulfilled life.
The idea behind positive thinking is that if you actively choose to think positive thoughts, always looking on the bright side of situations and expecting them to turn out well... then sooner or later they will.
But for some reason, some people refuse to believe this. However, positive thinking is not some kind of new-age witchcraft or fanciful idea; it is all about psychology. If you have a positive mental attitude you are able to handle every situation because you refuse to let any obstacles or negativity faze you. You are in control of your mind, emotions and reactions and therefore in control of the situation. You trust that you will do the right thing to achieve the best possible outcome. If things don't turn out as well as you expected, you won't feel disheartened - you will simply try again until you succeed. Sounds good, doesn't it?
Positive thinking is a useful skill to learn. It will make you feel happier, calmer, more confident and at one with the world. Of course, it's easy to be positive when things are going well, but not so simple when faced with problems or hardship. This is why you should practice positive thinking all the time. When tough situations arise, you will find them much easier to deal with.
So how do you learn to think positively? Below are twelve suggestions to get you started.
Take time out every day to feel grateful for the good things you have in your life, no matter how small.
- Use positive words in conversations with yourself. Tell yourself things like "I can" and "I will", rather than "I can't".
- Get some form of exercise every day. This will release feel-good endorphins into your body, which cause you to feel better about yourself and life in general.
- Write down some affirmations, such as "I am a positive person" and "Life is amazing", and repeat them to yourself when you wake up in the morning, before you go to bed at night and throughout the day. Really believe in what you are saying.
- Realise that every cloud has a silver lining and everything happens for a reason. You can find something good in any situation if you look hard enough.
- Read books and biographies about people who have overcome adversity to achieve success. If there is someone in your life who you admire for what they've done with their life, adopt them as your mentor and ask them for tips and advice.
- Do not allow disappointments or unexpected complications to get you down. Don't worry about what people think of you and certainly don't let them dictate your mood.
- Reject negative thoughts and feelings. Replace them with positive ones.
- Only associate with positive people and avoid negative ones who make you feel anything but great.
- If there's something you've always wanted to do or a goal you wish to achieve, set the wheels in motion now. Don't let fear or laziness beat you. In order to realise your dreams, follow this simple three-step plan: Conceive, believe, achieve.
- Find some inspirational quotes on the internet. Write down your favourites, stick them to your fridge door or computer screen and read them whenever you need a lift.
- Above all else, believe in yourself no matter what and have unwavering faith in your abilities.
Like all skills, positive thinking takes time to learn. You couldn't just pick up a flute or violin and begin playing with no previous training. You would take lessons, practice every day and gradually become better at making beautiful music. Developing a positive attitude towards life requires the same dedication and focused mindset. Follow the above tips and practice thinking positively every day, and it will soon become second nature to you.