I wanted my first post of the decade to be about positivity because I can’t think of a better way to kick off 2020.
Express Gratitude
Expressing gratitude has become a daily habit and is something that has made a positive difference in my life. Taking the time to count our blessings in our life puts us in a better frame of mind. I’ve been writing in my 5 Minute Journal for over 2 years now and currently on my 3rd one. Each morning I start off my day by writing 3 things I am thankful for. It could be as simple as a sunny day, a warm cup of tea or a hug from one of my children. Taking the time to focus on what is positive in our lives is a definite mood booster.
Get Up And Move That Body
It is scientifically proven that working out improves our overall mood and one of the best strategies for positive thinking. When you work out, your body releases endorphins which leads to feelings of overall positivity. I know that feeling of laziness but trust me, push through it and you will thank yourself later!
Spend Time With People Who Make You Happy
I definitely think this one comes with age, but if you aren’t doing this already, start to pay attention to the friends in your life who make you feel good about yourself, support you and who wholeheartedly accept and celebrate you as you are. Life is too short!
Engage In Acts of Kindness
Get involved in a charity or volunteer for a local organization.
You will feel a sense of satisfaction knowing you made a difference in other people’s lives and there is truly no better feeling than the gift of giving. This act can be as small as picking up the phone and telling someone you’re thinking of them, holding the door for a stranger to spending an afternoon at a food pantry or even making a donation to your favorite charity – remember no gesture or amount is too small. Though our intentions are to help others, you are also the one to benefit. I find this especially true when you’re feeling blue. Helping others shifts the attention away from what you may be going through and ultimately helps you appreciate your own life.
Experiences Vs. Things
I love and appreciate beautiful things. I think most of us do and there is nothing wrong with that as long as we balance this out with more meaningful experiences in our lives. The feeling after you make a purchase vs. going for a hike or spending the afternoon at a museum with a friend is significantly different. While the excitement of a new purchase may last for an hour, the experience of actually doing something or connecting with a friend has lasting benefits.
I suggest making a list of 10 attainable things you’d like to experience that doesn’t t involve something tangible and make it your goal to cross them off one by one. This doesn’t have to be done in a day, a week, or a month but it is a wonderful goal to work towards at your own leisure.
The Glass is Half Full Vs. Half-Empty
This kind of positive attitude may come naturally at times and also prove to be challenging at other times, and that’s ok. The key to working towards this shift in positivity is self-awareness and trying to find the bright side in every situation.
Though I definitely have my moments, I try to accept certain situations that don’t go my way and think that whatever happens was meant to be. Acceptance is a biggie. Once we accept certain things as they are, our energy begins to shift for the better.
Another idea is to write down a list of positive things when you’re in the middle of a difficult experience. I know this may seem crazy but it can be done.
Just to clarify, being positive is always a work in progress for me. I thought I’d share what helps me because more positivity equals happier people, equals a brighter world.
How do you bring positivity into your life? Please share below!
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