Each of us has a set of messages that plays over and over in our minds. This internal dialogue, or personal commentary, influences our words, actions, habits, relationships, and eventually, our destiny. Too often the internal dialogue we develop is negative. This negativity causes a ripple effect that affects all parts of our daily lives. We walk around with a dark cloud hovering over our minds, and view all glasses as half-empty. This negative approach to life can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Concepts such as the law of attraction and “you reap what you sow,” are proofs of the magnetic power of our thoughts. So the question now is, how can we brighten our views of the world? How can we infuse more positivity into our thoughts? It’s quite simple, actually. Positivity and optimism are easier than you think. Here are five tips that will make a profound impact on how you approach life and ultimately create a positive vibe all around you.
Starting your day with a smile is the best trick that you can play on your mind. Keep smiling all day long; whether you’re doing the dishes, driving or just sitting in front of your computer at work, do it smiling. Better yet, do you see a colleague walking by? Smile. Did s/he smile back?
Now this is a tricky one. Whenever you start having negative thoughts, like “Why is this happening to me?”, “Why am I this unlucky?” etc. STOP! Stopping is exactly what you have to do. Imagine a stop sign and get a handle on these thoughts. Negative thoughts will ruin your mood and day; stop them before they eat your happiness away.
When you surround yourself with positive people, you will become one. Or at the very least, you will become a less negative person. Find people who believe in you and your dreams. Spend time with those who make your spirit feel full and lifted. Decide for yourself if people who bring you down really have a place in your life. If they don’t, have the courage to move on.
Now really, who feels inspired by bare walls, cluttered rooms and a dirty kitchen? Exactly! Make sure you take care of your house; it will take care of you. Coming home to a house that welcomes you with love and inspiration is like walking into the arms of a friend who squeezes you tight and reminds you of how special you are. Try adding quotes that inspire you or little pick-me-up messages around your house, they’ll do wonders!
It’s easy to get absorbed by our own world of misfortune and forget about the people around us. Step outside of your daily routine to help someone in need. Helping is a great way to get a better perspective and fill yourself with positivity. Go all-out to do one nice deed for someone else each day. 2 in 10 respondents in the Bayt.com ‘Happiness and Personal Fulfilment in the Middle East and North Africa’ poll, August 2015, say they would like to spend their free time with their family and loved ones. Call a family member or friend, compliment a stranger or go out of your way to help a colleague at work.
