How To Be A Positive Person

Sometimes it can seem that we are surrounded by so much negativity that it can feel difficult not to be dragged down by it all. There's no doubt about it ~ life can be hard.

We view negativity on the television, read about it in the newspapers, witness it on social media, listen to it from friends, family and colleagues, see it in our own neighbourhoods, feel it in our personal lives and experience it in the workplace.

Negativity can be quite overwhelming and it can be difficult not to be engulfed by it. However, one tactic we can use is simply not to let it in and refuse to let it get to us.

We have all met that genuine person who has a kind smile on their face and holds no grudges towards anything or anybody, despite hardship, and who always seems so upbeat no matter what life throws at them. So how can we be more like that? What's the secret?

There are several things we can do to raise our spirits and maintain a positive and optimistic outlook.

Practice gratitude. It's a phrase we often hear at the moment but one that we need to embrace. Instead of complaining each morning about having to get up early for work, try being grateful that you have the privilege to get up and whether or not you enjoy your current job ( as jobs can be changed) be grateful that you have a job to go to which pays you money with which you can pay your rent and bills.

Stay away from negative people both in person and virtual. Choose your company wisely because the more we spend time with a certain type of person, the more we  subconsciously imitate them. If you have to spend more time alone for a while until you meet your tribe then so be it. Learn to enjoy your own company and become a good influence on yourself.

Appreciate what you have got right now, not what you haven't got or are afraid of losing. Never dwell on the past as that can never be changed and never fear the future as it hasn't happened. Be in the present moment.

Immerse yourself in pastimes that you derive enjoyment from, whether it's reading books, walking your dog or paragliding, there is always something that makes us happier. Live your own life and this means finding what brings us that feeling of peace and contentment.

Be kind to others. Look at each person as a whole individual who was once a small child. Never judge anyone as you never know what they have been through or going through. Compassion makes us kinder and there is nothing more rewarding than knowing you have put some good into the world, no matter how insignificant you feel it is ~ it never is.

Research has proved that the more we tell ourselves something, the more we begin to believe it so think those happy thoughts and as soon as a negative thought arrives, counteract it with a positive one.

Accept that events and situations happen for us and not to us. How many times do we hear people say that looking back they are aware that certain events led them on to happier times? There is always some good that comes out of bad. We may have to search for it and it may not be apparent immediately, but it will be there.

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