Keep It Positive
Positive Psychology rests on the belief that people want to experience love, hope, joy and abundance; enhance their capabilities and live rich fulfilling lives.
Research suggests that having positive emotions can contribute to life success. Experiencing positive thoughts and emotions enhances well-being, increases productivity and satisfaction. A positive mind is an open mind which accepts, understands and seeks growth; it is creative, helps take better decisions and is happier!
A Pragmatic View!
Though a state of positive existence is possible (and very beneficial); it does not mean that we will never experience negative emotions or have negative experiences. A realistic understanding of positivity suggests that having a positive attitude helps us in experiencing life fully - be aware of the ‘good’ and ‘bad’ situations, evaluate one’s true potential and look for solutions to move ahead.
Intention and Action!
From the flood of ‘positive/motivational’ messages on whatsapp to the trademark suggestion to ‘be positive’ – everyone today is promoting optimistic living. We all seem to be fascinated with the idea of being positive!
However, maintaining positivity requires action – everyday. The recent studies on neuroplasticity suggest that we are capable of magic! Neuroplasticity is a term used to describe the ability of the brain to reorganise neural connections by forming new neural pathways; throughout our lifetimes. In simple terms, it means that we can learn new ways of thinking and behaviour at any time in our life. This gives us the possibility to reinvent ourselves!
Begin with Yourself!
Step one for experiencing positivity is to shift focus on to yourself - take responsibility for it and take constructive steps to facilitate it. When we shift our focus to ourselves, we give ourselves an opportunity to grow and learn.
What’s Your Narrative?
We all have a story, a narrative about our lives in our head; which stems from our life experiences of course. It is a story we have told ourselves, about ourselves. This story and the role we play in our own story; determines how we approach life and deal with situations. Some view themselves as winners in their life story and some may look at themselves as victims – whatever we believe is how we will respond.
So ask yourself “what is my story?” and be aware of what you say to yourself. Remember – what you say to yourself will become your narrative! Once you have identified your narrative, you have the power to change it.
Engage with Yourself!
Everyday is not positive, but there is something positive in every day! Introducing these strategies in daily life keeps us engaged and going:-
Be Active - Walk, swim, jump, dance – move your muscles and feel alive. Engaging in physical activity is the quickest way to feel positive and relaxed.
Stay Connected – Healthy connections with friends and family is important to feel loved, compassionate and give a sense of belonging. Talk and listen, share and hear to feel connected.
Keep Learning – Embracing new experiences, engage in constructive and creative pursuits, keep the mind active and excited.
Joy of Giving – Sharing time, skills and talents with/for others and helping others helps us understand the power of kindness and gratitude.
3 X 3 – Pause and breathe 3 times a day, take out 3 minutes for yourself. Use this time to disconnect with everything and just be. Take a walk, listen to a song or simply sit with yourself – just be.
Gratitude – Every night, before bed, think of 2 things to be thankful for – Gratitude is powerful.
Positivity is a lifestyle which begins with the self. Device your own positivity tool kit.
