Are you a glass-half-empty or glass-half-full type of person? Studies have shown that either can impact your health. Being a positive person has proven benefits like more energy, improved health, faster recovery from illness, a lower rate of depression, better coping skills, and a longer life span.
Positive thinking won’t make problems disappear, but it will help them be more manageable and help you approach hardships more positively and productively.
A few techniques have been proven effective in being more positive. Here are 6 Tips:
- Focus on the good.
Life isn’t always fair. Difficult situations are a part of life. When faced with one, focus on the good things, no matter how small. If you look for it, there is always a silver lining, even though it may not seem like it at the time.
- Be thankful.
Researchers have found that keeping a gratitude journal or simply writing things down you are grateful for can improve your outlook and sense of well-being.
- Be open to humor and laughter.
Laughter is known to lower stress and anxiety. It also can help you with coping skills. Try not to take yourself too seriously. Be open to humor in all situations, especially the difficult ones, and give yourself permission to laugh.
- Surround yourself with positive people.
Negativity and positivity are contagious. What type of people surround you? Being around positive people can improve self-esteem and your perspective. Keep your positive friends near. They can help lift you up when faced with difficulties and help you see the bright side.
- Identify areas of negativity.
The areas where you feel the most negativity are unique to you. Do you feel the most negative when you’re driving? Is it when you don’t get enough sleep? Not sure? Ask a trusted friend. Odds are, they’ll be able to offer some insight.
- Listen to an uplifting song or playlist.
Music can brighten your mood. Research has shown upbeat music can bring a person joy. The Journal of Positive Psychology found that people who listened to cheerful music could improve their moods and increase their happiness in just two weeks.
You can learn how to approach difficult times positively with some practice. Being positive isn’t about burying every negative thought. Accept that some things are out of your control. What positive changes can you make? Sometimes, our biggest challenges are just on the other side of our biggest blessings.
Give yourself grace. Try to see yourself as if you were a good friend in need. How would you comfort her? You would likely acknowledge her feelings and offer support that things will get better.
Helpful Links
Sources:
Becoming Better
Newcomers News
Healthline
Posted on April 28, 2022 View the blog
