The power of positive thinking. Quite an impressive-sounding title, right? You may be wondering how that might be possible. I’m here to tell you that it is possible, not just anything you see in jargon on motivational posters or elsewhere. I’m talking real power — the kind that will lift a weight from your shoulders. I’m talking about being positive and boosting your mental health.
This article examines the benefits of positive thinking and how you can harness the power of positive thinking.
The benefits of positive thinking
1. Improves the ability to absorb new information easier
Research has shown that positive thinkers are better able to absorb new information. Increased knowledge leads to more significant personal growth, improved problem-solving skills and increased prospects of success in whatever you put your mind to.
2. Improves your physical health
According to research, people who think positively about their future health are more likely to be physically healthy. Studies have found that people who are optimistic about their health and expect good things in the future have fewer aches and pains, better sleep quality and energy levels.
The researchers also found that people who were pessimistic about their future health were more likely to develop heart disease and diabetes.
3. Aids recovery from injuries and illnesses
Positive thinking is an essential part of recovery from illness and injury.
Individuals who have a positive attitude about their recovery are more likely than those who don’t to make a full recovery. Individuals with a positive attitude are less likely to experience depression and anxiety during recovery.
4. Aids recovery from negative emotions
Our negative emotions can be detrimental to our wellbeing and the wellbeing of those around us. When it comes to decision-making, a negative frame of mind, by logic, is less likely to lead to a positive outcome. One of the best “tricks” of positive thinking is that it aids recovery from negative emotions, helping to build resilience. The scientific name for being positive is positive dispositional affect, and this personality trait also indicates more energy and enthusiasm.
5. It is contagious
Another beneficial side-effect of positivity is that it is contagious. This is either because a person behaving positively towards you releases the feel-good chemical oxytocin or because so-called “mirror neurons” mimic the actions of those with whom we interact. It is a win-win situation, especially with customers and colleagues.
Of course, just thinking positively will not ensure you achieve your goals, and positive action is required to build on these optimistic and enthusiastic ideas. So how do you become more positive, especially if it is not your natural disposition, and reap all these rewards from thinking and behaving positively?
Ways to harness positivity
The great news is that you can harness the power of positivity. A self-generated positive mindset is equally as influential as one that is interwoven in your DNA, and will a little effort and focus, you can realise all of the above benefits.
1. The core is deep self-belief
Tell yourself you are capable of significant achievement every day. Let this become a conviction. When negative doubts invade, banish them. It is a choice to embrace a more optimistic outlook. Affirmations are a great way to do this. The likes of Tony Robbins spend ten minutes a day on their affirmations. Check out thirty-five great affirmations by Dr Carmen Harra here.
2. Associate with other positive people
Pessimists will drag you down as well as reinforce doubts and uncertainties. However, positivity breeds positivity and bolsters self-esteem. It may seem obvious, but one negative nay-sayer can cynically destroy your confidence, and it is better to avoid such folk. Spend time with those who make you feel uplifted and will happily tell you, ‘You can do it!’ should self-doubt creep in.
3. Keep a gratitude diary
Counting your blessings is a proven and effective tool to aid positive thinking and attain inner peace. Taking note of five things to be grateful for at the end of each day can rapidly transform negative thought patterns. These items can be as small as the enjoyment of a delicious cup of coffee or as important as the fact that you are in a loving relationship.
4. Look after yourself properly
A healthy diet, adequate exercise, and rest are essential in maintaining physical and mental health, so do not scrimp on any of these areas. It’s too easy to slump back into negativity when over-tired and under the weather. It is easy to get bogged down with work, but ensure you achieve that all-important work-life balance.
If you have difficulty harnessing positivity, book your free discovery call to see how we can help you regain your mojo.
Author: Gemma Rolstone | Published 19th September 2016.
