Your Mindset Matters: How to Stay Positive When You Don't Feel Like It

Let's be honest. Sometimes life sucks. You're trying your best, but nothing seems to be going your way. It can be easy to slip into a negative headspace - no one would blame you - but what if your mindset makes all the difference in your outlook and perspective? Your mindset can have a powerful impact on how you approach and deal with the challenges in your life when things feel messy. So when you're feeling down, negative or overwhelmed, it's important to be aware of your mindset and take steps to shift it towards a more positive outlook. Even research backs up the fact that people with a positive mindset may suffer less stress and self-reported symptoms of psychological disease.

So how can you keep a positive mindset and outlook, even when you don't feel like it? Here are a few ways you can stay positive even when you're down in the dumps.

Practice Gratitude

Gratitude is the act of being thankful and appreciative of the good things in your life. When you focus on what you're grateful for, you shift your attention away from negative thoughts and towards the positive aspects of your life. Take some time each day to reflect on what you're thankful for, whether it's a supportive friend, a loving family member, or simply the fact that you have a roof over your head and food to eat.

Challenge Negative Thoughts

Negative thoughts can quickly spiral out of control if left unchecked. When you notice negative thoughts creeping in, challenge them by asking yourself if they're really true or if you're catastrophizing. Try to reframe negative thoughts in a more positive light, for example, "I'm not good at this yet, but I'm working on it" instead of "I'll never be good at this."

Practice Self-Care

Taking care of yourself physically and mentally is essential for maintaining a positive mindset. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly. Study after study confirms that those three are critical to your mental and physical well-being. So treat yourself to something that makes you happy, whether it's relaxing with a bowl of popcorn, binging your favorite new Netflix series or a night out with friends. Take the time to take care of you!

Surround Yourself With Positivity

The people and environment around you can have a significant impact on your mindset. Seek positive and supportive people who uplift you and avoid those who bring you down. Surround yourself with things that inspire and motivate you, whether it's uplifting music, motivational quotes, or photos of people you care about.

Set Realistic Goals

Setting goals that are too lofty or unrealistic can quickly lead to disappointment and frustration. Instead, set small, specific, achievable goals that build up to bigger accomplishments over time. Celebrate your successes along the way, and don't be too hard on yourself if you experience setbacks.

Remember, your mindset is a powerful tool that can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals. By following the tips above, you can cultivate a positive mindset even when things get tough, and if you're still struggling to reframe your brain, Evolution to Revolution Consulting & Coaching can help you create a positive mindset by helping you understand yourself, your vision and your purpose more clearly. Contact us today.