In our hectic lives with their own ups and downs, it can sometimes be very difficult to remain positive. There may be intense moments where negative emotions got the better of us. Most of us are capable of ending negative thinking but for some of us, it made be more difficult.
Negative thoughts have been linked to mood changes, weight gain and other stress-related illnesses – which in the long run may affect not only your physical health but your mental health too.
Positive thinking is therefore important to our overall health as improves your mood, give you a boost of confidence and a general feeling of contentedness. Here are a few tips you could apply that can help you feel more positive:
Start your day right
From the moment you wake up, you have the opportunity to make the best out of your day. Starting your day with your favourite ‘feel-good’ song can not only bring you a lot of joy but also releases the happy hormones for a good start to the day.
Try to set your alarm to 20 minutes earlier so that you have some time to yourself in the morning. Make a nutritious breakfast to avoid any hunger or fatigue and have a little stretch to get the blood in your body flowing.
When you are not in a rush in the morning, you can take your time in doing the things that make you feel good. When the tone is set, you’re more likely to stay positive for the rest of the day.
Replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts
We are all guilty of getting caught up in our negative thoughts. Instead, a technique to combat negative thoughts is to zone in onto the good aspects of the thought instead. This is helpful in allowing you to take a step back and reevaluate your perspective and rethink your emotions. Finding a pastime to occupy yourself is a good way to distract yourself. Read the book you have been wanting to read, listen to your favourite podcast or go to the gym. There are plenty of activities you can do to fill your time and prevent yourself from falling into the trap of your negative thoughts.
Surround yourself with people who make you happy
We all have that friend or significant other who makes us feel really good about ourselves. Surround yourself with more of these people – those who make you feel amazing and appreciate you for the person you are.
Try to cut contact with people who make you feel bad about yourself. Being in an environment where you’re uncomfortable and often upset is not worth dragging yourself down for. You should only surround yourself with people who see the best in you and cheer you on to be a better version of yourself.
Meditate
Meditation has been proven to have excellent benefits on how we feel. These benefits include increased focus, reduced stress, improved sleep and increased productivity. By taking 5-10 minutes out of your day to meditate and let your body and mind settle, you’ll be able to relieve your stress and remain positive.
Exercise
If you have a high-pressure job, you may be experiencing a lot of stress. Exercising is a great way to relieve the stress you feel at your job. Try going for a gym class or a run before or after work. Exercise releases happy hormones like endorphins that not only relieves stress but also puts you in a positive mood and allows you to feel confident about yourself.
