8 Tips to Help You Think More Positively

You’re probably aware that the benefits of thinking positively can radiate out into benefits for many areas of your life. Emerging research is suggesting that people who complain all the time are wiring their brains towards negativity. But changing your outlook on things is sometimes easier said than done. That’s why we’ve put together these simple tips to help you shift towards more positive thinking, so you can lead a happier life.

1. Awareness

The first step towards thinking more positively is awareness. Many serial complainers or people who tend towards the negative side of thinking will be unaware that this is what they are doing.

Start paying attention to your thoughts. Mentally or physically note down the negative thoughts that drift into your mind. Even this step alone might be enough to shock you into change.

2. Re-framing

Once you become aware of the negative thoughts you are having, you need to actively think of a different thought. This might include looking at your problem in a different way and finding the ‘silver lining’ of the problem.

3. Surround yourself with positivity

You may be aware that your way of thinking can be hugely influenced by the people you spend the most time with. Surround yourself with as many positive people as you can and notice the change in your mood as well as the change in your thoughts and language when you’re around them.

4. Fill yourself up

If your personal well-being needs aren’t being met, it can be more difficult to feel positive about everyday life. Allow yourself time for exercise, good food choices, rest, connection with other people, time in nature, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Notice the difference this brings to your mood and the thoughts that come into your mind.

5. Use affirmations

Affirmations are positive statements that you say to yourself, ideally out loud and in front of the mirror. Write some down that resonates with you and read them out each morning. This can help your positive thoughts to continue on throughout the day.

6. Gratitude

Think about the things you are grateful for, even if they seem small. You can say these out loud or perhaps write in a gratitude journal. When you’re feeling really down it might be hard to think of the positives in your life. Perhaps it’s something as simple as having a loving family, or a roof over your head each night.

7. Wherever you are, be there

Living in the present moment is a concept that is more ingrained in Eastern philosophy, and that people in the west are becoming very much aware of. However, even if you live in the east you might have found yourself caught up in the modern world of ‘doing’ instead of ‘being’. Slow down and focus on the present, because that’s all you have right now.

8. Don’t compare yourself to others

You might have heard of the statement ‘don’t compare your life to someone else’s highlight reel’. Social media is a huge part of modern life. With that comes the potential to feel down about your own life if you look at the profiles of others and feel like they’ve ‘got it together’ or are ‘living it up’ more than you.

Recognize that what you see on social media is a small snippet (usually the best parts) of someone’s life. They may not share their problems on social platforms but you need to be aware that each and every person faces a lifetime of challenges. Spend less time on social media if it is affecting your ability to think positively.