One easy way of looking on the bright side is by completing the sentence starter, “the good news is” whenever you are facing a challenge. [2] X Research source For example, you had a minor car and your car’s rear bumper is damaged and needs to be replaced. You can tell yourself, “The good news is that there is no damage to the actual car frame, which is a relief. ” Try to reflect on your personal successes. Make a list of all the good things that you have accomplished throughout your day by listing all of the reasons that you are successful, and all of the things that you have accomplished. Try and think of what makes you happy and relaxed while creating your list.
For example, let’s say you are working a part-time job and are feeling down because it’s taking longer than you would like to be hired for a full-time job. Instead of dwelling on negative thoughts like, “I’m not making enough money with this part-time job,” you could tell yourself, “I really appreciate the extra time I now have to go the gym and prepare some home cooked-meals for the family.
When you have negative thoughts, change it to a positive thought. For example, instead of thinking, “I’m no good at dancing,” tell yourself, “I will get better with practice. ” If you’re negatively thinking, “I’m too tired to work,” change it to, “I will put forth my best effort even though I’m tired. ”[5] X Research source Like anything, practice makes perfect. It takes time to develop a habit, so the more you focus on engaging in positive self-talk, the more natural at it you’ll become.
For example, you can say, “I love how my shoulders fill out this shirt” or “my legs look really good in this dress. ” This will help you to develop a healthy attitude about your physical appearance.
Start with decluttering a little at a time to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Each day, start with one room, and remove 25 items that are out of place or need to be discarded. Pretty soon, you’ll find you are surrounded by a neat and tidy space.
The VIA Institute of Character offers a free character strengths assessment known as the VIA Survey. You can complete the survey in about 15 minutes. [7] X Research source The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is another personality assessment that you can take to learn more about your personality strengths. [8] X Research source
Send out positive signals so you can attract positive people. Before going out to meet others, focus on conjuring up positive energy. Think about all of your positive qualities that would attract others to you, such as your compassion, sense of humor and kindness.
Ask friends and family to recommend good therapists or counselors. Your primary care physician can also be a good source for providing a counseling referral or recommendation.
Find something that makes you happy and incorporate it into your daily routine. For example, you could start each morning by reading an uplifting quote, doing a crossword puzzle, or taking your dog for a walk.
Get started by writing down five things in the past week for which you are grateful. Keep each entry short to about a sentence in length. You can write about very simple things like appreciating the smell of freshly baked cookies, to more significant events like receiving a clean bill of health during a doctor’s appointment. [12] X Trustworthy Source Greater Good Magazine Journal published by UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, which uses scientific research to promote happier living Go to source Purchase an uplifting calendar with inspirational quotes, and place it on your nightstand next to your bed so the first words you encounter each morning are positive and uplifting. You can also find uplifting books and websites to read as you prepare to start the day. [13] X Research source
Not sure where to start? Consider starting a bucket list of all the things you want to experience and explore in your life. Expand your knowledge by enrolling in a new class or learning a new language. You can even have new experiences by breaking out of your normal routine by switching up your exercise regimen or being adventurous and trying out new fashion colors.
Donate food or volunteer at your local food bank. Become a positive role model to youth in your community by volunteering to become a big brother or big sister. Visit the elderly at your local nursing homes. The list is endless for things to do to help improve the lives of others, which in turn improves your life as well.
