Ever wondered how some folks in your life seem to always be in an upbeat mood no matter what life throws at them?
They always seem so strong and unbothered, and the truth is they’ve mastered the art of staying positive despite life’s many adversities. This ability, however, doesn’t come without practice.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the habits that help optimists keep their mood bright. Do try to keep it consistent so you can see the effects sooner than later.
1. Practice Gratitude Daily
Gratitude is a shared value in many religions and cultures across the world, and for good reason.
Although there may currently be negative things on our mind, there are always small positive things we can be grateful for. Optimists often take time each day to reflect on what they are thankful for, whether it’s a kind gesture from a stranger or just a really good cup of coffee.
Being thankful shifts our focus from what’s going wrong in our life to the things that are going right. You can practice this habit anywhere—during your morning walk, over a cup of coffee, or as a daily journaling exercise.
Try it out: Spend 5 minutes every day listing three things you’re grateful for. See how this small habit can transform your mindset.
2. Surround Yourself with Positive People
They say you are the average of the five people you surround yourself the most with.
The people you spend the most time around can have a great influence on your outlook. Those who stay positive often have a circle of supportive friends and family who lift them up during life’s lows.
While not obvious, these interactions can help uplift your mood, provide encouragement, and share laughter. Imagine you’re surrounded by cheerleaders; surely you’d feel more positive!
Check your circle: Identify the people that bring the most positivity into your life. Spend more time with them!
3. Embrace Challenges as Opportunities
Those who are optimistic often see life’s challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for personal growth.
Here’s a simple prompt: Instead of asking, “Why is this happening to me?” try asking, “What is this trying to teach me?”.
This switch in mindset shifts setbacks into stepping stones, building resilience in the mind and the motivation for us to move forward. It’s embracing the mindset of every cloud has a silver lining.
Try asking yourself: What can I learn from this situation? This question alone can shift you into a more positive mindset.
4. Prioritize Self-Care and Wellness
How can you think well if you don’t even feel well?
Taking care of your mind and body is crucial. Eating junk food that makes you feel sluggish and tired makes you feel negative. Being on your phone for too long has the same effect too.
Instead, make regular time for activities that take care of your well-being, be it exercise, meditation, or simply getting enough sleep.
These changes can help boost mood and energy levels, bringing you a positive outlook when tackling life’s challenges.
Here’s how you can start: Schedule ‘me time’ into your weekly schedule and treat it as a non-negotiable as you would with any other important appointment.
5. Focus on the Present Moment
90% of the things that we worry about in life actually never happen!
Knowing that fact, it makes even more sense to not dwell on the past or worry about what could go wrong in the future. Instead, focus on the here and now and be mindful.
Mindful individuals are more positive because they engage with the world around them and find joy in everyday pleasures. This can help reduce stress and increase emotional stability.
Find a mindfulness practice that helps you focus on the now. Try things like meditation, journaling, or painting!
Start small: take a deep breath and focus on your surroundings. Notice how this shifts your attention and mood.
6. Don’t Forget Your Sense of Humor
Humour is one of the most powerful tools to cultivate positivity. People who laugh often find it easier to navigate tough situations, as humour diffuses tension and creates connections. After all, who doesn’t like a good laugh, right?
Here’s a reminder to not take everything too seriously. Laughing at life’s absurdities can strengthen our bond with others and bring about a lighter mind.
Try watching a funny movie, standup comedy shows, or even swapping jokes with a friend the next time you’re feeling down.
7. Set Realistic Goals
Focus on the word “realistic”.
People are often negative because they feel like it’d be impossible to achieve a big goal in mind. The trick is to break down the big goal into small consecutive goals. Want to run 5 miles? Why not try setting a 1 mile goal first?
That is a much more achieveable goal, but still on track to your ambitious goal of 5 miles! You’d feel more confident when you hit the smaller goal, and you can carry that motivation on.
This habit can help you feel accomplished and maintain momentum without feeling the extra stress.
Think about your current goals – are they realistic? Break them down into smaller tasks and celebrate each completed task!
8. Give Back to Others
The best of them all: helping others is a powerful pathway to positivity. It’ll help you feel more connected and purposeful in this world, in what many call a ‘helper’s high’. Not only that, you’ll also find more ways to be grateful for situations you’re in.
When you help others, you also help yourself.
Look for opportunities to contribute in your local community, whether through volunteer work or simple acts of service.