How to Think Positively

What does 'think positively' really mean?

Quite often, when we're going through a challenging time or we're just plain miserable, we invariably get the advice to "think positively!" 

Sometimes, it isn't easy to figure out precisely what that means.

Does it mean to deny our pain or discomfort?

Should we pretend everything is alright?

Perhaps, at times, we would prefer to wallow. Surely, there must be some merit in wallowing. Indeed, there may be (time heals most wounds). However, at some point, we have to pick ourselves up and move on.

In order to do so, we must change our mindsets or attitudes from being non-productive to positive and progressive. Of course, we can't be in denial or adopt a Pollyannaish, rose-colored glasses way of looking at the world.

Negative feelings and circumstances do exist and often indicate that something is not working or needs attention. In such cases, we must employ positive thinking to interpret what happens to us practically and constructively to make our lives work better. Of course, it doesn't mean denying pain and discomfort. It means making sense of them and using what we can to strengthen our resolve and build resilience muscle.

Tips on Developing a Positive Thinking Mindset

➜ Accept that you are here to grow and evolve. Life doesn't always go smoothly. Not everything is meant to be a joyride or an exercise in pleasure. Life's lessons can be difficult but are more so if you approach them with avoidance and apprehension. If you see them as opportunities to become stronger, wiser, and more resilient, you are thinking positively and productively. 

➜ Learn to turn lemons into lemonade. Look for lessons in every situation. Instead of feeling sorry for yourself when things don't go your way, do what you can to make the best of the situation. Learn how to avoid falling into the same traps and making the same mistakes. By doing so, you will undoubtedly be the better for it. 

As James Joyce said: "A man's errors are his portals of discovery."

➜ Believe in yourself. Know that you have what it takes to succeed. Your dreams and goals are an indication of where your talents lie and where your true potential is. You must develop your inherent gifts; however, recognize that you have a unique contribution to make. You're one of a kind. 

➜ Acquire perseverance. When you possess a positive mindset, you never give up. You pursue your dreams, goals, and objectives with everything you've got, and you don't settle for anything less. That's not to say you won't have roadblocks and various setbacks along the way. It just means that you won't let them stop you!

 "Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail." Ralph Waldo Emerson 

➜ Look for inspiration and support. Read about and study the triumphs of others. Many successful people have gone through challenging circumstances to get where they are. Learning about their trials and tribulations can motivate and inspire you to achieve that which you choose to achieve. To help you stay positive and focused, garner support from family and friends. 

 "Most of us, swimming against the tides of trouble the world knows nothing about, need only a bit of praise or encouragement - and we will make the goal." Jerome Fleishman

The Benefits of Thinking Positively

According to the Mayo Clinic, a wide range of health benefits are linked to thinking positively. Here are some of them:

• Better overall psychological health

• Lower rates of depression

• Longer life expectancy 

• Lower stress levels

• Increased resistance to the common cold

• Better stress management and coping skills

• Lower risk of heart disease and related death

• Increased physical well-being

Ultimately, thinking positively doesn't mean being unrealistic or deluded. It means dealing with life and life's challenges as they are. It means being willing to do the work necessary to get on with living fully with everything it entails. So the next time a well-meaning person tells you to think positively, smile back confidently and let them know it's part of your everyday, productive mindset.