It’s fair to say many of us at least try to start the year with some positive psychology. Traditionally, we all make New Year resolutions; we resolve to exercise more, save more, spend more time with the family, etc. Sadly, as the year advances, a lot of those resolutions are forgotten along with the New Year party decorations. If winter weather brings you down, if the shorter days make you depressed, take heart; we’ve thought of 9 ways you can turn that negativity around and think more positive this year.
Singer Willie Nelson, who knows something about negative events in life, once said, “Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll start having positive results.” We can’t promise that thinking happy thoughts about money will make you rich or that thinking of a nose job will make you beautiful. We will promise that thinking positively will make you happier, healthier and give your year a sunny new start. Here are some positive thinking tips to get you started.
1. Redefine Happiness for Yourself
Seriously, spend a few minutes and figure out what it is that makes you happy. Not “I’m going to a party” happy, or a new pair of shoes happy; what is it, that deep down, gives you contentment day in and day out. Meditate, learn and expand your horizons to maintain that level of happiness.
Read Related: 5 Ways to Nurture Your Child’s Positive Body Image and Self Esteem
2.Follow the Leaders
Mahatma Gandhi devoted his life to freeing India from British rule by using the technique of non-violent civil disobedience. Gandhi spent his entire life looking for good; in himself and in the world. As you search for happiness, consider some of his words.
3. Get Into Gratitude
Rule number one in positive psychology: vow to give thanks for what you have. If you’re healthy, lucky enough to have your family around you; be grateful. Strive to make a daily list of five things or even three of what makes you grateful. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to do and how your attitude will improve every day.
4. Be Proactively Healthy
Health is a gift that many do not have. If you’re lucky enough to be healthy, work to maintain it. Schedule doctor appointments, eat a balanced diet, quit smoking, and exercise more. You know what it takes to achieve or maintain health and being healthy will improve your attitude about life, we guarantee it.
5. Practice Self Love
Start by looking at each day as a new beginning not a repeat of the same old thing. Spread cheer, smile, get a good night’s sleep, do something for others. Do something for yourself without feeling guilty. A positive frame of mind is the best face you can show to those around you.
6. Get Into Something New With Your Partner
Resolve to learn something new together. Sign up for ballroom dancing, plant a garden, learn how to kayak or volunteer at a soup kitchen; whatever you do, do it together. Couples who spend time together on common interests are more likely to stay together through the dark times. Your positive attitude can be shared as well.
7. Step Out of Isolation
This is one of the best positive thinking tips we can give you. It’s easy to come home from work and hide in your quiet little space and unwind. Man is a herd animal, we need others to make us happy. Join a club, join a church; find a volunteer group and sign up. Get out and meet people and find something to laugh about; you’ll be happier for it.
8. Learn How to Live in the Moment
You can spend your hours dreaming about tomorrow or you can just enjoy now. Find a way to appreciate the life you have and work to extend that life into tomorrow. Regret for what might have been or longing for what you could have had will only darken your day. Find a reason to celebrate who you are at this very moment.
9. Practice Positivity
Make a decision to be positive. Open the shades and let the light in; take a deep breath and face the day. Not every day will be good and sometimes they will downright suck. How you face the day, how you face your life, is what makes the difference. Smile more; it uses fewer muscles than frowning and causes fewer wrinkles.
