Start thinking positively

Having a positive attitude takes practice. If you struggle with positive thinking, know that you can’t completely change how you practice self-talk overnight. It can be challenging for people with more pessimistic thoughts to change their habits of thought. 

It’s important to understand that sometimes you’ll slip back into thinking negative thoughts, but that’s okay. What matters is that you’re trying to empower yourself to have a more positive mindset by becoming aware of your automatic negative thoughts and reframing them to be more positive.

Becoming aware lets you question your negative automatic thoughts. Many coaches recommend some version of these questions to ask of your thoughts: Is it true? Meaning: Is the sky falling, or is there another possible interpretation? Is it helpful? Meaning: Does this interpretation help me get through this moment productively or inspire me to find new solutions? Is it kind? Meaning: Does this thinking help me feel capable and able to reach out to others for help or support? Here are few more tips to help you start thinking positively:

You can be grateful for many things in your life, both big and small, like having your family close by or the rain holding off during your walk to work. Write down whatever you’re grateful for and keep it in a gratitude journal. When you’re feeling pessimistic or upset, reflect on what you’re thankful for in your life to boost your mood.

Are you getting enough sleep each night, or at least trying to? Being well-rested sets you up for a better day. It helps us recharge and get our tasks done. Dwelling on how tired you are won’t help your attitude, either. Your self-talk will be filled with wanting to get your day over with impatient thoughts, so try developing a good nightly routine that prioritizes your sleep schedule.

If you’re in a negative situation, there’s no sense in being in denial and pretending it never happened. For example, if your brother has taken the car and you have to walk to an appointment, reframe the situation: this gives you the chance to get some exercise and fresh air. Understand your locus of control. Accept what you can’t change and do your best to think of the positives instead.

Is there one particular situation or environment that makes you incredibly pessimistic? If you can identify areas that throw off your positive outlook on things, you can start to work on strategies that’ll help. It can be something like your commute to work that gives you negative thoughts.

Try to have fun with the challenge. Next time, create a fun playlist of music to put on when you head to work. Avoid people or places that really drain your energy, and try spending more time with positive people.

Trying your best to find humor in your daily life helps you look on the bright side. It also helps you to manage your stress levels and reduce your heart rate, potentially improving your physical health.

If you can’t laugh, then at least smile. Laughing along with yourself can help you accept any mistakes and calm yourself down. If you need to, watch a funny video or phone a friend that can make you laugh.

While we love positive thinking benefits, you have to remember to be reasonable and logical with your mindset. Only considering positive thoughts blocks out any thoughts about how you’d react or prepare for something negative. 

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