The Power of Positivity
The world around you is currently ever-changing. It’s hard to obtain a grasp on what the next day will bring or what your life may look like. If you are like most parents in this current climate, you are taking on new simultaneous roles, all while managing your own stress and the stress of others around you. The unfortunate reality is that finding positivity in these challenging moments may sometimes seem impossible. Understand that these feelings are normal, and these negative emotions, including fear and deluge are natural responses. In the midst of moments filled with lack of control, find peace in the power of positivity.
”Your mind is a powerful thing. When you fill it with positive thoughts, your life will start to change.”
We often hear others say look on the bright side or look at the cup half full, and in the moment it often feels easier said than done. However, researchers are finding more and more evidence highlighting the many benefits of optimism and positive thinking, including those both mentally and physically. Positive thinkers are found to be healthier, less stressed and have greater overall health. Positive thinkers: cope more effectively with stress; have a stronger immune response; have a higher buffer against depression in the midst of crisis and are found to have increased lifespans.
While it may not be easy or come automatically, there are some things you can do to help boost your mood and get through these challenging situations
Practice positive self talk :Be gentle and encouraging with yourself and respond to negative thoughts with positive affirmations
Surround yourself with positive people
Smile more
Practice reframing: Recognize when an intrusive thought is taking over. Become intentional about stopping the thought. Replace the thought with happy thoughts.
Be mindful: Periodically stop throughout the day to take account of what is around you and what is happening in your head.
If you don't feel one-hundred percent on board, acting a certain way (in this case positive) allows your brain to rehearse a new way of thinking and can set off a desired chain of events in the future. Bad things will and do happen. Sometimes you feel disappointed, hurt or sad. Optimism may not always be appropriate or possible. However, practicing and utilizing positive thinking can help to achieve short-term and long-term resilience, health and stability during a time when we need it the most.
Emily Martin, MS, NCC
