6 Ways To Keep A Positive Mindset

Unfortunately, there are situations in life that overwhelm us and affect our mindset. Whether it’s a natural disaster, breakup, or loss of job, stress happens and can change our feelings about ourselves and the world around us.  Even small things like mild money problems and relationship bumps can affect how we feel and what we think. It is, therefore, serving to consistently take care of yourself mentally and physically, especially when issues arise. It is during challenging times our bodies and minds are stressed and need more loving attention. Do also know that cultivating a positive mindset doesn’t happen naturally; it takes hard work to keep your thoughts positive.

Here Are 6 Ways to Keep A Positive Mindset Through Life’s Challenges (Both Big And Small):

Take Time for Yourself Every Day

Spending time alone or nurturing ourselves has become the thing that gets left behind more than ever, especially with technology making us available to the world 24/7. However, fighting for “me” time each day allows you to recenter and respond to the not-so-positive situations in a more positive light.

During this time, consider doing things you love in places that inspire and refresh you. Taking even 10 minutes to sit in peace without distractions can calm your mind and body, allowing more positive thoughts to prevail. It sends the message that you love yourself to every cell in your body.

Talk Openly About Your Feelings

People are often taught as children to “be quiet” or “don’t cry” when things are hurtful. They bottle up their emotions and suffer the consequences for it all through life. And, yes, this affects how and what you think, as well as. It is beneficial to talk about your feelings with a trusted friend or counselor. This could help you unwind some of the emotional trauma from childhood and your adult life. Another option is checking into life coaching that focuses on the areas you struggle with the most. This appeals to women who don’t want to get therapy and don’t have a trusted friend or family member to talk to.

Practice Self-Compassion

When people struggle with a situation, they often think negatively about themselves and beat themselves up emotionally. Although there is nothing wrong with feeling disappointed or frustrated, this mindset can become harmful if you carry it continually. It sends the message to yourself that you are not worth loving and receiving compassion. Again, this mindset likely came from past trauma. You can change it, though.

I have learned to hold myself in compassion just like I would one of my children. However, this is a mental intention that takes practice and consistency to make a difference. It helps to catch yourself when you think negative thoughts about yourself and over mistakes and regrets. The truth is, we all make mistakes and fall short of the world’s expectations. Self-compassion is unconditional love directed to YOU. I have changed so much from practicing self-compassion and extending to all forms of experienced pain and trauma.

Make An Effort To Help Others

Helping people that are less fortunate than you has been proven time and time again as a good way to increase your sense of worth and happiness in life. So whether it’s donating old clothes or money to charity, volunteering at food pantries, or even just lending a listening ear, doing things to help others can help you feel good about yourself. This is that “compassion” thing going in the other direction. 

Set Realistic Goals for Yourself

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by stress when you set goals for yourself that are too high or impossible to achieve. This is why it’s important to set realistic goals and give yourself enough time to complete them. Doing this also gives you a sense of control over the situation and prevents you from feeling overwhelmed and stressed. I know all too well that stress contributes enormously to a poor mindset.

Be Grateful

When you go through a tough time, it can be hard to see the good in life. However, this is the time to find something to be grateful for. If you make an effort to appreciate what you have and the people in your life, you begin to see that you can change your outlook with a shift of perspective.

Try writing down 3-5 things you appreciate in your journal each night or even spending a few minutes outside in nature and looking around you. Not only will this help put things in perspective, but it can also lift your mood and possibly provide inspiration for when you’re feeling down.

Having a positive mindset takes time and patience with yourself. Know that you will experience setbacks and times when you just can’t think positively. That’s OK, if you work on it consistently, things will get better. You have the power to change your mind and your life. Be well, my friends.