Being optimistic isn’t something that comes naturally to everyone. Some people have thought positively throughout their life and it comes as second nature to them, but others may not have had that and would need to actively focus on implementing a positive mindset to be able to look at the sunny side of life.
Learning to make something a habit isn’t always easy, but it can be enjoyable! The most important thing is to stick to it- motivation is key. If you can motivate yourself while implementing techniques to stay positive, it won’t just lead to making you feel happier, you could also improve your overall well-being. Here’s how Dr Emily Anhalt, a specialist in emotional fitness classes and therapy, suggests you start.
Adjust your activities
If you’ve had a trip or vacation that was just cancelled (for whatever reason), instead of feeling blue about what you’ll be missing, just adjust the activity. For example, if you were planning a trip to Italy and you can no longer go, Anhalt suggests throwing a themed party (with or without guests) to serve as a ‘stand in’ until you can take your trip. Organize some Italian food, play Italian music, dress up how you would in Italy, or watch an Italian movie.
Visualize the future
If you can visualize the future, you are giving yourself a powerful tool to make it a reality. Anhalt suggests that “When you set an intention, you start to make all kinds of micro decisions to move toward it”. You can do this by setting up a vision board. Put your craft materials to good use and envision your future by manifesting your goals to help you self-actualize them. For example, if you want to buy a home, make a vision board of what you want it to look like.
Do what brings you joy
When you find yourself feeling low, do something that will trigger your happiness. What is it that brings you joy? If you have a song that you love to dance to, play it. If playing with your pet brings you happiness, spend time with them. Dr Erin Olivo, a clinical psychologist, explains that “Everyone has to figure out what their own triggers are for joy or love or excitement, and once you know what some of those are, you can actively seek those out”.
Keep a journal of gratitude
Studies published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that “A conscious focus on blessings may have emotional and interpersonal benefits” in terms of improving your well-being. This can be done by keeping a journal where you list things for which you are grateful, all it takes is a few minutes every day! This can encourage you to appreciate the positive things in your life and help you to start looking out for everything that you can be grateful for throughout the day. Dr Olivo suggests that you be as specific as possible, so that you can generate the feeling of positivity.
Do something for others
While it’s great to do something for yourself, it can also be in your best interests to do something for someone else- and it helps others feel better, too! The feeling of being of service to someone else or feeling like you’re contributing to someone else’s well-being has shown to give individuals a longer-lasting dose of dopamine than just doing something for yourself. You don’t need to do something that would be very time-consuming or expensive, even just opening the door for someone or helping them complete a small task will do.
At Greenstaff Medical, we’re always looking out for one another and look forward to helping you feel better. If you’d like to join a team that cares, take a look at some of our most recent vacancies, or simply reach out to us, we’d love to connect!
Sources:
