Insights demonstrate that we have a tendency to harp on the negative five times more than the positive. With information like that, it’s no big surprise that the world appears like such a negative spot. In any case, it doesn’t need to feel that way! On the off chance that you are burnt out on concentrating on the negative and might want to search for the positive in life, take after these six basic rules.
- Identify the Positive Every Day
Why do we make such a big deal about the negatives in life, while casually passing over all that is positive? Isn’t it better to put greater focus on the positive? It is, if you prefer to be in a good mood most of the time. Take a moment to pause and reflect when something good happens to you during the day. It doesn’t have to be a huge thing; it just has to be a good thing. From getting a fresh cup of coffee in the office kitchen to having a great sandwich at lunch, if you identify the positives you will be in a better mood. - Don’t Blame Yourself for Being Negative
Thinking positive isn’t always easy to do and it isn’t always something you can just do. If you have to force yourself to be think positive, don’t. It will just make you feel more negative, and you’ll end up beating yourself up for it.
- Decrease Negative Thoughts
If you can’t muster up the strength to think more positive thoughts, you can work on decreasing your negative thoughts. Just shut them down! For example, let’s say you want to ask someone out on a date. Identify any negative thoughts you may have about the encounter and decrease them.
For example: They may say no. If they do, they’re missing out on getting to know a great person.
B. They may say no. If they do then they aren’t my soulmate. - Engage in Face-to-Face Communication to Quash Misunderstanding
If someone is already having a bad day, they may misinterpret and email or text. They may see sarcasm where it doesn’t exist. You don’t want to unintentionally anger a friend, relative or coworker, so face-to-face communication is best. You can get your point across, express sympathy or empathy in a believable way if you meet face-to-face. That way, your day is more positive too. - Show Authentic Emotion
When you’re having a stressful day, I’m sure you like to have your problems acknowledged. The empathy or sympathy given to you by others helps you get through your day. Be sure to show that same kind of authentic emotion when others are distressed. It helps them find a way to overcome. - Know the Time and Place for Negative Thinking
Negative thinking isn’t all bad. Sometimes it can help you succeed, and that’s positive. When you’re really fearful of failure, negative thinking can help you get prepared. That’s because we tend to prepare ourselves more when we are fighting against failure. Sometimes negativity is your mind’s way of lighting a fire under your rear to make good things happen.
Identifying the positives each day is a great practice. I find it helps me stay grounded and appreciative of the little things.
Face-to-face communication is indeed very effective in avoiding misunderstandings. Nuances are often lost in text.
The six rules outlined are quite sensible. Implementing them might require effort but could lead to a more positive outlook.
Understanding that negative thinking has its place is crucial. It’s all about balance and knowing when it’s constructive.
Decreasing negative thoughts seems like a practical strategy. Acknowledge the negative but don’t dwell on it.
It’s true. It’s often easier said than done, but acknowledging it is the first step.
Agreed. Shutting down negative thoughts can be very empowering.
It’s interesting that we tend to focus on the negative so much more than the positive. This article provides some actionable steps to counteract that tendency.
Not blaming oneself for being negative is an important point. Self-blame can lead to a vicious cycle of negativity.
The idea of showing authentic emotion is particularly resonant. Genuine empathy can significantly improve interpersonal relationships.