Is Positivity that Powerful?

We have all heard the term “the power of positive thinking”. Self-help books, motivational talks, posters…the sentiment is everywhere.

And for good reason.

Our disposition could be defined as the typical attitude or mood we have each day. It also reflects the tendency for how we act in life’s circumstances.

Think about it - How did you react today to the things around you? Were you in a good mood, or a bad one? If our daily focus is on the negative things in life, then how do you think that may influence how you see the world and how you respond to it.

Negative Right!

What if our focus had of been on the positive?

Don’t get me wrong. Yes - sometimes life can be hard. However, there are ways in which we can change our disposition. This can enable us to take a renewed perspective and come out of situations that have not been so great with a more positive view of life, rather than allowing the situation to overwhelm us.

We all know the influence our thinking has on our emotions and the increased level of anxiety and depression that occurs from that thinking. If we constantly dwell on the negative aspects of life they become our reality (whether our perceptions are right or wrong).

We also know that our focus on negative relationships, events etc. can have a physical implications and may give rise to the fight of flight response. The fight emotion “anger” can lead to frustration, resentment and depression. The flight response “fear” can lead to concerns, worry and anxiety. However if our perceptions lead to peaceful feelings, we relax and are thankful, accepting and happy. (It may not be that easy but you get what I am saying).

Can you imagine how different your world would be if we shifted our disposition? A place where we simply focus on the positives we see. The good news is that you can!

Here are some ways to help shift focus to the positive:

1.      When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement,
            'My purpose is to __________ today.  I am thankful for______________'

2.      Take a 10-30 minute walk every day.  And while you walk, smile. 

3.      Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.                                                                                                                                                                                      If you are religious, talk to God about what is going on in your life. Turn off your phone, and lock the door if needed

4.      Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.

5.      Try to make at least three people smile each day.

6.      Don't take yourself so seriously - No one else does.

7.      Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

8.      When you are feeling down, start listing your many blessings. You'll be smiling before you know it.

9.      Frame every so-called disaster with these words:
           'In five years, will this matter?'

10.  Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements:
        I am thankful for __________.   Today I accomplished _________.