Life throws so many curveballs at you, it’s very easy to feel overwhelmed. It seems like 2016 has been full of upsetting events – both globally and personally – but here’s how you can stay positive.
Over the years I’ve experienced loss, illness, all sorts of stresses – as we all do. Something I learnt during the time that I was really unwell, is that you have to find the positives in life, otherwise you just feel worse and worse.
It can be so hard not to focus on the negative, when it feels like everything is going wrong and the world is turning to shit. It can be especially hard, if you’re depressed or stressed, to see that there’s a way out of that downward spiral.
It’s all about taking simple little steps.
A few ideas of how to stay positive
Keep a gratitude journal
Get a fresh journal or notebook, and take a moment to write down some of the good things in your life, list some things you’re thankful for. Start doing this daily – keep a note of all the good things that happen throughout your day, even the tiny little things which seem insignificant. Seeing all these nice things laid out in front of you will help remind you that the world is not all bad.
Surround yourself with positive people
It’s pretty difficult to learn to be positive if the people around you are constantly dragging you back down. We all like a good rant every now and then, but too much can be incredibly draining. Be with people who lift your spirits.
Turn off the news
Sure, it’s good to know what’s going on in the world, but let’s face it – it’s 99.9% bad news. Maybe only watch it occasionally, or only read a couple of articles.
Watch positive TED talks and listen to uplifting podcasts
It doesn’t have to be airy-fairy hippy stuff, there are some really straight-talking people out there who cut out the bullshit and get to the crux of things. I’ve heard a lot of people say that they love doing this first thing in the morning to set them up for the day. Here are a few to get you going:
• Attitude Makes all the Difference
• How to Handle a Bad Day
• Why We Do What We Do
Remember that problems are always solvable
If there is something negative taking over your life, think of ways you can change the situation – my mum always says that problems are always solvable. If something is impacting your life in a bad way, brainstorm some ideas of how to make it better – sometimes this is easier with someone else, as they’ll have an outside perspective. It may take time, but you can break it down into small steps.
Get therapy
If you’re finding it too hard to get out of the negative thought patterns, consider therapy – it doesn’t mean you’re weak at all. I’ve been through a few courses of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and it really challenges the way you think about things, and it’s by far one of the best things I’ve ever done to improve my life. Your GP can refer you, and sometimes you can refer yourself through your local Depression & Anxiety Service.
Spread love and positivity
Finally, make sure you spread the love and positivity – you never know how much you might help someone else.
