We’ve all heard the sayings: ‘Think happy thoughts’ and ‘A positive mind leads to a positive life!’, but if positivity became a daily habit rather than a lucky, passing feeling, how different would our lives be?

In a world full of distractions, where overthinking is becoming the norm, staying positive can feel challenging. However, it's not as hard as it seems. It's about taking smaller steps in becoming your better self and starting to live a more meaningful lifestyle where you take your power back!

Photo by Gerd Altmann on Pexels

Step 1: Change Your Inner Dialogue

The way we talk to ourselves shapes our reality. At the end of the day, we only have ourselves, so you have to be your own best friend in your mind. If you are constantly feeding yourself thoughts of self-doubt, you can never improve and believe in yourself. You wouldn't say depreciating things to your best friend, so why would you do it to yourself?

Our brains respond to affirmations, so instead of immediately jumping to the conclusion that you're not good enough, take it as a sign of your ongoing learning and improving. Changing negative thoughts isn’t about denial, it’s about training your mind to see opportunities instead of obstacles. Finding positives out of situations that have put you down is key in attaining a positive mind.

For example, a quote that sticks with me is: ‘Stop focusing on making the right decision. Instead, focus on making the decision right. Stop beating yourself up about a mistake you may have made, and instead focus on growing from that mistake and improving yourself.

Take the Quiz: Which Fall Activity Should You Try Next?

Fall is full of exciting activities to match your vibe! This quiz will help you discover the perfect way to enjoy the season.

Step 2: Create an Uplifting Environment

The people, content, and habits we surround ourselves with all have an immense impact on our energy. You must figure out what drains you to find places where you can feel fulfilled. Whether it’s interacting with positive-minded friends who let you be you rather than making you overthink every word you say, reading inspiring books, or starting your day with music that you genuinely like and that lifts your spirits, your environment plays a key role in shaping your mindset.

Quit the addiction of listening to sad music to ‘feel something’, open your eyes to the reality of who you spend your time with, analyse what you do in your spare time, and you will find ways to improve your lifestyle in no time.

Photo by Elle Hughes on Pexels

Step 3: See Setbacks as Redirection

Failure is never a sign to stop, it’s a sign to learn and improve. The most successful people have one thing in common. That is, they didn’t let setbacks define them.

Instead of seeing obstacles as barriers, view them as a learning curve you can complete to learn and improve. Every challenge teaches you something, every rejection redirects you, and every difficult moment strengthens you for what’s ahead.

Step 4: Practice Gratitude

It’s a whole lot easier to focus on what’s missing in your life, but true positivity comes from appreciating what’s already here, which is easy to forget. When practicing gratitude regularly, you will feel more fulfilled, making you live in the moment more! Take a moment each day to acknowledge things, whether big or small, that bring joy to your life.

You most likely dreamt about being where you are right now, so take a breath and appreciate where you are. You can write these down in a journal every morning or say them in your head when getting ready. Whatever it takes for you to remember the brighter parts of your life and make you stop feeling sorry for yourself! Gratitude is an eye-opening process that makes you realise how much you have to be grateful for.

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels

Step 5: Move Your Body

If you're going through it in the moment, you probably don't want to hear this, but getting your body moving makes a huge difference. Yoga, pilates, running, or a simple walk releases endorphins that naturally enhance positivity, thus not only improving physical health but sharpening the mind, too. Any stress will fade, and you can start feeling better about yourself.

Even five minutes of stretching in the morning can be the difference between a lazy and a productive day. Just getting some daily fresh air will make you feel ten times better!

Step 6: Watch What You Consume

What you consume, both physically and mentally, can majorly affect your mood and your outlook on life. If you're rotting in bed all day, demolishing greasy food, you're not going to be feeling good about yourself. A diet rich in whole foods, fruit, and vegetables fuels your brain, stabilises your mood, and increases your energy levels. Likewise, feeding your mind with uplifting content through books, podcasts, or meaningful conversations can help reinforce a positive mindset, and get you out of your rut.

Photo by Nati on Pexels

Step 7: Stop Mindlessly Scrolling

Social media. Our best friend and worst enemy. One minute, it’s a source of inspiration.

The next, you’re spiraling into comparison mode because someone in Bali is living your dream life. Our phones are both powerful, life-changing tools and, consequently, major distractions. Doomscrolling, comparison culture, and constant notifications are incredibly draining and distracting. Try setting boundaries by limiting screen time, taking social media breaks, and being intentional with the content you consume. Instead of mindlessly scrolling, use your phone for inspiration, learning, or connecting with loved ones. I promise you that you won’t miss anything on your socials.

Positivity doesn't come quickly. It takes some brain training and lifestyle adaptations to create a more positive outlook on both yourself and the life around you. You can't let other things define you, whether that's a bad grade, a weird comment someone made about you, or if you're feeling lazy at the moment. You must take your power back and start appreciating life again.

Photo by Ivan Bertolazzi on Pexels