“More smiling, less worrying. More compassion, less judgment. More blessed, less stressed. More love, less hate”
Roy Bennett rightly stated this heartwarming sentence in his book, The Light in the Heart. Though a no-brainer, it is a thought-provoking sentence compelling to make us think about how genuinely we experience the grin stretched across the face and whether it is a by-product of the happiness within or a forceful smile.
Stressor- a silent killer
Unavoidable stressors are a part of our daily life- stress of work, relationships, finances, health, some undesirable life transitions, academics, family, the list is endless. Our thoughts grow more alert as a result of these silent assassins, setting up the “fight-or-flight” response. Chronically, such a response can be detrimental to our health and deplete us of our energy levels.
Nothing in life is everlasting. Just as each season comes and goes, neither does a difficult period in life last forever. We need to recognize that these impermanent thoughts are also visitors in our brains, accept and acknowledge them, release them and try not to let them absorb us for too long.
“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade”
Sometimes the circumstances and results may not be what we anticipate and this uncertainty of life is both a blessing and a curse. When life seems unfair or difficult, we need to stand up for ourselves and make an effort to find the bright side of things. Acceptance and a positive outlook can help develop the resilience, problem-solving, and emotional well-being that will enable us to overcome obstacles. Perhaps, by embracing a positive mindset, with some strength, we can make the best of the lemons that life throws our way.
But what is Positive Attitude?
It’s about embracing the joys of little things by being in the here and now, in the present, and accepting the moment. It’s not about denying negative emotions or challenges, but about cultivating a balanced mindset that acknowledges the difficulties while choosing to focus on the positive aspects and possibilities. It will need practice and consistency on the part of both the person and the community to develop optimism. So here are some tips and tricks from us that can be of help in your daily routine to boost your positive thinking:
Develop an Attitude of Gratitude: Regularly spend some time to consider what you have to be thankful for. Practice this by keeping a gratitude diary or a journal, making a gratitude list, or just being grateful to others. Focusing on the good things in life will help you change your perspective.
Practice constructive self-care: Look after your physical, mental, and emotional health. Prioritize the things that make you happy, relaxed, and fulfilled. Self-care activities encourage joyful feelings, self-worth, and general optimism.
Positive Self Talk and Affirmations: Switch out negative self-talk for positive affirmations. This cognitive restructuring process aids in reorienting your thought processes and encourages a more upbeat view. To reaffirm good views about yourself and your abilities, use positive affirmations. Repeat yourself the affirmations that speak to you, such as “I am capable,” “I am worthy of love and happiness,” or “I embrace positivity in my life.” Affirming yourself positively on a regular basis will reprogram your subconscious mind and improve your self-esteem.
Surround Yourself with good Influences: Surround yourself with good influences, such as uplifting literature, motivational podcasts, or upbeat and encouraging people.
Practice mindfulness and meditation: By nurturing ideas free from judgement and a sense of inner serenity and optimism, mindfulness and meditation practices can help calm the mind, heighten self-awareness, and encourage a positive and present-focused mindset.
Establish Realistic Goals: Set specific, achievable goals that are in line with your beliefs and interests. Divide it up into smaller, more doable tasks and acknowledge your accomplishments along the way. Setting and attaining goals increases self-assurance and strengthens a positive outlook.
Develop a Support Network: Surround yourself with positive, optimistic individuals that encourage and inspire you. Find social groups that promote encouragement, positivism, and personal development. Sharing your experience with others may be a great source of inspiration and encouragement. Release tension by laughing it off with your pals.
Stay close to nature: Go outside to take in some fresh air. Walk to your heart’s content while taking in the scents of the flowers, the moist earth reminiscent of rain, the singing of birds, and the rustling of leaves.
Life’s transience can help us learn important lessons about resiliency, adaptability, and personal development. Though it is difficult to acknowledge, obstacles and challenges can provide chances for growth and inner fortitude. Be kind to yourself and incorporate these practices into your everyday routine. Over time, you will strengthen your positive thinking skills and experience the benefits of a more optimistic outlook on life. Even while the events we confront may not be in our control, how we respond is. So let’s choose a smile, compassion, hope, gratitude, and love to add life to your days and not just days to life.
