The Power of Positive Thinking: Techniques for Fostering a Positive Mindset

Positivity is power. Power to smile more. Power to strengthen relationships. Power to decrease stress and anxiety. Power to enhance your academic and athletic performance. Power to support your physical well-being. Power to take control of your mental health. In today’s hectic world, recognizing positivity amidst chaos can be challenging. We're here to remind you that every struggle, setback, or defeat always has a silver lining. Today, make a commitment to foster positivity–look below for some ways to start :)

Start a Gratitude Journal

As the name suggests, a gratitude journal is a place where you write things you are thankful for. Big or small, consider getting into the habit of jotting down some positivity each morning or night. Not only does gratitude journaling help you focus on the positive, but it has also been tied to reduced stress, improved sleep, and decreased feelings of isolation and loneliness. Don’t know what to write about? Look here for some prompts!

Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness and meditation are two practices that allow you to stay centered in the present moment, pushing away negative ruminations about the past and future. These techniques force your body to slow down, allowing you to become more in touch with your emotions, thoughts, and urges. This contributes to an overall sense of relaxation and a more positive outlook on life. 

Engage in Daily Affirmations

What tone do you use when you talk to yourself? Is it critical, judgmental, or bitter? Although it may be difficult to break patterns of negative self-talk, it’s crucial to remember that you should be your own biggest cheerleader. By practicing self-compassion, you reinforce supportive self-beliefs, increase self-esteem, and train your brain to focus on the positive. Click here to find some examples of positive affirmations.

Surround Yourself with Positivity

Think of yourself as a sponge–you absorb what’s around you. If you’re committed to maintaining a positive mindset, evaluate if your surroundings support that goal. Do you have a group of supportive friends that lift you up in times of need? Do you consume positive media and avoid stressful or pessimistic content on the internet? By removing negative influences and strengthening your relationships with positive ones, you gain an environment that supports motivation, personal growth, and well-being.

Perform Acts of Kindness

The verdict is out: you feel good when you make others feel good. Performing acts of kindness has a surplus of mental health benefits, including improved mood, increased connectivity with others, and decreased depression and stress. And good news–there are so many ways to be kind! Whether you send a loved one a thoughtful text or simply make someone laugh, choose to practice kindness and positivity today.