How To Navigate Your Way To Positive Thinking

In today’s hectic and stressful world, we find ourselves with less and less time to devote to our own wellbeing. One of the sad outcomes of leading such pressure-filled lives is negative thinking, which can lead to depression, anxiety, and other disorders affecting mental health. It is imperative that we recognize negative thinking in ourselves and as soon as we do, stop and steer ourselves onto a pathway of positive thinking.  

Positive thinking is a way of life that not only enhances behavior and personality, but also has potential benefits in other areas of life that include a career or relationships with others. Looking at the brighter side of life is the main essence of a person who is constructive, creative, and ready to carve his/her own path to success.

There are great incentives for positive thinking, and the very first step should be to filter out the “self-talk.” This would involve schooling oneself to be “grateful” for things that are “right” with life and not dwelling so much on negative aspects. Switching from negative to positive thinking will take time and practice. An effort has to be made to replace “bad “ thoughts with “good” ones. Soon enough, it will become a habit.

It has been reported that being physically active leads to reduced stress and an elevated mood. A balanced diet plan aids in sustained wellbeing as well. Cultivating a new hobby or indulging in one’s passions can lead to a sense of fulfillment. Surrounding oneself with people who are encouraging and radiate positive energy is extremely helpful. A positive outlook on life leads to less stress and resultant psychological issues and helps one deal with day-to-day issues in a graceful manner.

If one is willing to put time and energy into building and maintaining a positive outlook, he/she will always smile through life and find the positive affirmation to succeed.

References:

Accentuating the positive. (n.d.). Retrieved March 20, 2015, from http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/magazine/accentuating-the-positive

Naseem Z. & Khalid R., (2010), Positive Thinking in Coping with Stress and Health outcomes, Journal of Research and Reflections in Education, June 2010, Vol.4, No.1, pp 42 -61   

Stress management. (n.d.). Retrieved March 20, 2015, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/stress-management/basics/stress-basics/hlv-20049495

Turn Negative Thoughts to Positive Results. (n.d.). Retrieved March 20, 2015, from http://www.usatriathlon.org/about-multisport/multisport-zone/multisport-lab/articles/turn-negative-talk-positive-021412.aspx

Zandvakili M., Jalilvand M. & Nikmanesh Z., (2014), The Effect of Positive Thinking Training on Reduction of Depression, Stress and Anxiety of Juvenile Delinquents, International Journal of Medical Toxicology and Forensic Medicine, Feb 2014, 2014;4(2): 55-62