Do you feel as though a negative outlook on life is holding you back? Do you wish you could be more positive but struggle to actually break out of negative thought patterns?
Don’t worry, it’s not just you! We’re actually hardwired to be negative. This is known as negativity bias and may even be an evolutionary development. Indeed, it doesn’t matter how many times we’re told to “look on the bright side” and align ourselves with people who think the “glass is half full”; the truth is that humans are inherently negative.
We all go through circumstances in life that may make us feel down or helpless, but if your pessimistic outlook is more habitual, it’s time to make a change. One of the most powerful things you can do for yourself is to accept that your outlook on life is in your own hands — and that you have the power to shift it.
So how do you keep the bad stuff from sticking? There are some simple and practical ways to rewire your brain for positive thinking. To get you started on your journey to a more positive outlook, here are some tips that may help you change your perception and live more happily.
SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVE PEOPLE
Most people are heavily influenced by the behaviours of the people around them and may even mimic these subconsciously. As well as applying to the things people say and do, this can also relate to their outlook. Surrounding yourself with positive, motivated people can do wonders for your perception of yourself, help you make the most of opportunities and give you the drive to go after what you want.
Radiators are people who exude warmth and energy. Drains are those people who suck all of the life and energy out of you, leaving you feeling negative and down. Get rid of the latter and surround yourself with the former. Or better yet, share this article with them and spread the positivity! Viva la revolution, and all that.
TRACE THE NEGATIVITY BACK TO ITS SOURCE
Next time you catch yourself having a negative attitude towards something, try to trace this negativity back to its source. Is this pessimism or self-doubt coming purely from you, or is it someone else’s opinion that’s got stuck in your head? Are those feelings of negativity related to something subconscious or historic? Tracing them back to their source could help you understand your feelings more astutely.
If the root of your negativity is related to a past experience or relationship, you may be able to loosen its hold over you by making a conscious effort to stay positive in situations that would usually trigger a negative thought process. Try looking at your past differently and use it as an opportunity to strive for a more positive future. Over time, your thoughts and habits may just change for the better.
KEEP A GRATITUDE JOURNAL
For many people, the idea of a gratitude journal makes them cringe, but you’d be amazed at how beneficial this simple practice can be. Try taking yourself away from distractions and allow yourself some time to relax, whether by listening to music, meditating or doing some reading. When you feel ready, write down three things in your journal that you’ve felt grateful for today. These things can be small or big, from fleeting moments that made you smile to achievements at work.
When you get into the habit of keeping a gratitude journal, you’ll find there are always a few things to be grateful for, even on the toughest of days. Some days, this might be something as tiny as a comforting cup of tea or a television show that made you laugh, but these small moments of joy can help you focus on the good things and process your thoughts and feelings in a more positive way.
BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF ABOUT YOUR FEELINGS
Ignoring a negative emotional mindset won’t make it go away – these feelings are a sign that there’s an issue to be rectified. When you have negative thoughts, think about what it is that’s making you feel this way. For example, if you wake up feeling terrible about the idea of going to work, ask yourself why this is and what you could do about it. Perhaps you’re under too much pressure, or you feel you’re not being challenged enough in your current role? These are both things you may be able to rectify by taking action.
CONSULT AN EXPERT
Whether your outlook on life is constantly holding you back or you just want to feel a bit more upbeat and motivated, talking to an expert could help. A professional coach with accredited life coach training will be able to work with you to transform your outlook, helping you shift your thought patterns and see things from a new perspective. Moreover, they can offer the right amount of discipline and a fair amount of accountability to help you focus on positive things.
Talking things through with a life coach will give you the extra support you need to live a happier, more fulfilling life.
Read: What is the difference between a life coach and a therapist?
THE BOTTOM LINE
Just as you shouldn’t expect the first bicep curl in the gym to immediately bring you bigger muscles, so you shouldn’t expect you can instantly become more positive. It takes time.