It sometimes seems overused, yet the “power of positive thinking” is a well-known idea. However, numerous scientific investigations have shown that positive thinking has physical and psychological advantages. For example, positivity may boost your self-esteem, lift your spirits, and even lessen your risk of contracting diseases like high blood pressure, depression, and other stress-related ailments.

Optimistic self-talk, optimistic imagery, and general optimism are all ways to define positive thinking, yet these definitions are still broad, nebulous ideas. You’ll need specific examples if you’re serious about changing your thoughts and becoming more optimistic. Here are some steps that lead to a positive mindset –

1. Practice Gratitude – It has been demonstrated that cultivating thankfulness can lower stress, boost self-esteem, and promote resilience even during extremely trying times. Try to thank someone or something at least once every day. Consider the people, events, or possessions that make you feel at ease or happy. This can be done by expressing gratitude to a coworker for assistance with a project, a loved one for doing the dishes, or your dog for their unconditional affection.

2. Focus On Good Things – Obstacles and difficult circumstances are a part of life. Focus on the positive aspects, no matter how minor or seemingly trivial they may seem, whenever you are faced with one. Even when it’s not immediately apparent, there is always the proverbial silver lining in every cloud if you look for it. For example, consider how if someone changes plans, it gives you more time to watch TV or engage in other enjoyable activities.

3. Open Yourself To Humour – Always be able to find the humour in any circumstance, but especially in the trying ones, and allow yourself to chuckle. It immediately brightens the atmosphere and makes things seem less challenging. Even when you’re not in the mood, feigning or coercing a chuckle can lift your spirits and relieve stress.

4. Start Positive Self-Talk – Most of the time, we are our own harshest judges and most severe critics. Because of this, you could develop a long-lasting unfavourable self-perception. Therefore, you must pay attention to the voice in your brain and give it constructive feedback, commonly referred to as positive self-talk, if you want to stop it.