Hello everyone!

Today we are talking about how to be more positive and ways to be an optimist! Being positive is an essential attribute that is critical to leading a happy and fulfilling life. A recent study found that people who identify as an optimist have a reduced risk of certain diseases such as heart disease, stroke, or cancer. Furthermore, it also has been linked to having a longer life span, better sleep, less depression, and better stress management.

On the other hand, cynicism and pessimism are related to fatigue, sleeping issues, dementia, heart attacks, and headaches. Reshaping your outlook on life to be more positive is not an easy task but it doesn’t mean it’s impossible! We will be sharing a few simple steps and tips you can incorporate into your daily life and routine allowing you to think, feel, and be more positive over time.

So let’s get into it!

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1. Practice gratitude

Practicing daily gratitude is an amazing way to be more positive! Every day try to write down 5 things you are grateful for. This habit will help you see the brighter sides of things and lift your mood immediately!

2. Positive self-talk

Positive self-talk is necessary for being an optimist and also a person with high confidence and high self-esteem. If you are constantly thinking negative or self-deprecating thoughts, how can you expect to have a positive outlook on life? Try to combat negative thoughts and self-deprecation with immediate positive affirmations.

3. Start your day right

Beginning your day properly is an important step in having a positive attitude. Your alarm sound, the time you wake up, and what you do immediately after waking up can set the tone for the entire day! So try to have a calm and relaxing alarm (We recommend using an actual clock instead of your phone) and even a sunset/sunrise clock is a great way to wake up naturally if you like to keep your blinds closed. Waking up from 5 am to 9 am is most in line with our body’s natural circadian rhythm and can help us feel more energized and happy in the morning. Right after you wake up, try not to reach for your phone! We recommend drinking tea, doing yoga, stretching, journaling, saying a positive affirmation, or reading.

4. Eat healthily

Our dietary choices have a profound effect on our moods. If you’re constantly feeling down, angry, or sad without reason, try to take a look at your diet!

5. Exercise often

Working out on a consistent schedule can do wonders for your emotional, physical, and psychological health! Try to get at least 20 minutes of exercise every day whether it be from walking, running, weight lifting, or yoga! Moving our bodies boost our endorphins which makes us feel happy and positive.

6. Get enough sleep

Getting enough rest is essential for healthy and positive living. Try to have a proper nighttime routine and ensure you’re getting into bed and getting at a minimum of 7 hours of sleep! Some of us can sleep a bit longer or short and be okay but try to avoid sleep times under 6 hours.

7. Be mindful of your media consumption

You need to be hyper-aware of the type of media you consume on the daily basis. If you only watch true crime, watch the news, and listen to sad music- it only makes sense that it will start affecting your outlook for the worst! From social media to music, try to ensure the things you watch, listen to, and read are more positive and uplifting. This is not to say you can’t enjoy anything else (I’m an avid horror movie watcher) but you need to be mindful of what messages you’re taking in on the daily basis and if it’s affecting your mood or not.

8. Be organized

Living in clutter, running late for meetings, and forgetting to run certain errands is no way to live. If you’re constantly stressed or behind on things you need to do- it can be hard to stay positive and happy! Make sure your space is always kept organized and clean and also get into daily scheduling to help keep you on track! When you’re on top of things, it can help you feel more relaxed, happy, and positive!

9. Address the skeletons in your closet

We avoid certain emotions, memories, and conversations because we know they will hurt us but this is no way to live! We need to address some of the deep-rooted traumas or shortcomings to move forward and get better. It can be hard to be positive and happy if we know deep down there are things we want to change, regrets, and secrets. Whether it be therapy, talking to a friend or family member, or journalling- it’s time to resolve our trauma!

10. Reconnect

Reconnecting with things that bring us happiness is a great way to be positive and an optimist! Make time for hobbies and activities that bring you joy and watch how much happier you’ll become. It is crucial to have time to indulge in these things that bring us positive emotions because that’s what living life is!

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Are you an optimist or a pessimist? Will you use any of the tips from this list? Let us know in the comments below!

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