How to Make Positivity Work for You
Our minds are always abuzz with activity. On the subconscious level, our minds are always thinking of something. However, the problem doesn’t lie in our brains’ inability to quiet down. Instead, the problem lies in the type of thoughts we’re thinking.
When you finish a task, a project, or perhaps a physical therapy session, what’s the first thought that pop into your mind? More often than not, it’s some form of criticism: “it’s not good enough,” “if only I could spend more time on this, I would be better,” or “I’m never going to be good enough.”
These negative thoughts can also be referred to as limiting beliefs. They are limiting because they prevent you from going after something that you want, like that dream job or working towards a better prosthetic outcome.
However, did you know that limiting beliefs aren’t our default? Just look at any four-year-old who had just finished a painting or a game. What do you see? Often, they are proud and excited by what they have accomplished.
The good news is that positive thinking is not exclusive to children, and you can work towards getting a bit more positivity into your life. Here are some things that can get you started.
Replace negative thoughts with positive ones
Every time you notice a negative thought taking up space in your mind, replace it with a positive one. For example, it’s your third physical therapy session, and you feel you’re not improving. Instead of berating yourself, think about how showing up and working with your physical therapist is more than enough for a successful day. Break your goals into small bite-sized goals, and you will see progress soon.
Reframe the situation
You can find positivity in everything by being aware of the good things in your life, such as your supportive family, funny friends, that new amputee support group you just discovered, or even how beautiful the day is. If you seek positivity, you will find it.
Practice gratitude
Many psychologists have studied and written about the stress-reducing effects of gratitude. Fill your life with positivity by writing down five to 10 things you’re grateful for every day. You can do this in the morning before going to work or at night before going to bed. This simple practice is guaranteed to lighten your mood.
Change your thoughts to change your reality
Our thoughts shape our reality. If you think dark, negative thoughts, these will manifest in your life. But if you make it a habit to fill your mind with positivity, you will see that things aren’t as bad as they seem.
If you continuously practice positivity, you will eventually rewire your mind to replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Consistency is the key to making positivity work for you.
Have you tried any of these tips? How have they impacted your life? Share your experience with us in the comments section below.
