Embrace the Positive

August 19, 2022

Pessimist or Optimist?

Do you consider yourself a pessimist, an optimist, or somewhere in between? Which ever way, the real question is how we deal with how we think.

Psychiatrist Arghya Sarkhel tells us that, “The brain can be conceptionalized as a network of complex electrical wirings. Studies have shown how these circuits can be dampened when negative thinking becomes a default mode, while encouraging comments and affirmations that bring about positive experiences can help to strengthen these networks instead.”

What is an affirmation?

An affirmation is a statement that encourages us to look at ourselves and our experiences in a positive way. Psychotherapist Uxshely Chotai explains, “Positive affirmations make us more aware of our thought processes and encourages self-compassion, which can help us reframe (our) inner dialogue.” In other words, positivity breeds positivity.

The more positivity that surrounds people, their ability to appreciate it improves. But deciding to be and remain positive is hard.

Techniques to Practice Positivity

First, notice how you feel in certain situations. When you look in the mirror, what thoughts enter your mind? Do you focus on what is wrong with your face or body? Do you allow these feelings to fill you up? Once you become aware of what you are thinking and feeling you are able to change those thoughts and focus on all the positives about your body.

Secondly, change the language you use when talking to yourself. Instead of ‘I can’t’ or ‘I never’, reframe it by using words like ‘I’m willing to’ or ‘I will try’.

Thirdly, use affirmations and uplifting quotes to help you focus on the positive. Place these where you will see them as the day goes on.

Positive Thinking

Nadia Narain says, “Positive thinking is a constant work in progress, and it takes time to find what works for you. But working on it can have such an amazing wide effect on your well-being.”

What about dealing with negativity?

Uxshely says, “It’s empowering to realize that we create our own experience of the world by the thoughts that we have.”

Letting go of negative thoughts is accepting that they come and go, and that they are just a thought and not what is real.

Look for what is good!

Have a positive day!

Ann

Dragonfly Books and Art

Self-Care for the Real World: Practical Self-Care Advise for Everybody: Narain, Nadia and Phillips, Katia Narian 2018 Amazon (friendly advice, personal stories, exercises, recipes)