We live in a culture that often delights in focusing on the negative: a constant stream of bad news, fear-based headlines, guilt-inducing ads, and social media shaming. It’s no wonder it’s so easy to dwell on everything that’s wrong with the world; but doing so can take a heavy toll.  

Research has shown that your mindset affects your mood, your relationships, and your well-being. Thinking positively rather than focusing on the negative can even mean the difference between success or failure in your endeavours. Cultivating a positive mindset means looking for the bright side in every situation, choosing to see the good in the world, and finding the silver linings no matter what’s going on in your life. Cultivating that optimism is possible with a few solid strategies.

Here are six ways to start the new year with a powerfully positive mindset.

Use a selective focus

Consciously focusing your mind onto something positive is a powerful way to change your mindset. For example, choosing to focus on the silver lining in a bad situation, the good in someone you might not get along with, or the learning opportunities in a challenging time turns your view from negative to positive and lets you approach things in a new light.

If you tend to worry about the future or stew in the past, you might also try focusing only on the present and on the things you can control.

Cultivate an attitude of gratitude 

Gratitude is a powerful feeling, and an excellent tool to reset your mindset. No matter how dire the circumstances, we can all find something to be grateful for: a good friend or family member, community support, a sunrise, happy memories, the air we breathe. Tapping into the power of gratitude takes your mind off negative scenarios and opens it up to a more positive perspective.

Use a one-word mantra

Choosing a one-word mantra that is motivating, uplifting, or meaningful can help you to refocus your mindset whenever the need arises. For example, if you find yourself getting weighed down by the heaviness of the world, choose a word like “joy” or “goodness”. If you lose steam with your goals and feel like giving up, try a word like “focus” or “forward” to keep you on track.

Once you’ve got your word, repeat it often. Post it on your fridge or keep it in your phone and reflect on it whenever you feel the need for a boost of positivity.

Nurture your sense of humour

Nurturing your sense of humour is a great way to cope with stress and negativity. The physical act of smiling and laughing has been shown to actually make you feel happier. So watching a comedy, telling a joke, or just thinking back to a positive memory that brings a smile to your face can turn a grumpy mindset around.

Surround yourself with positive influences

They say we become like those we hang out with, so choose your companions carefully. There’s nothing more uplifting than happy people who view life through rose-coloured glasses. Surrounding yourself with positive people will undoubtedly have a positive influence on your own mindset. Can’t find anyone positive around you? Read positive books or watch positive shows.

Choose healthy habits

Ever tried to be positive when you feel sick, exhausted, or in pain? It’s tough. Your physical body affects the state of your mind, so building healthy practices into your life can completely change your state of mind. Exercise, for example, increases serotonin in the brain, which boosts your mood and well-being. Eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough rest also have a huge impact on your outlook.

Looking for more healthy habits inspiration and support? Come talk to an expert at the LD Pharmacy anytime.