Does it seem challenging to find a way to stay positive when you're going through a rough patch? Even the most joyful person can find it hard to stay positive when problems present themselves.
With the seismic shifts the world has experienced in the past two years, from coronavirus lockdowns to other contentious moments in society, upheaval might seem like a regular occurrence.
In the human experience, it's common to face obstacles in our lives, and looking on the bright side will help you get out of a slump, keep a positive outlook, and keep on top of your game.
And it's easier than you may realize! Here are some easy ways that have helped me and could help you feel your absolute best when the going gets rough.
Psst! There is no such thing as failing — there are only opportunities to learn.
The word "failure" should be wiped right out of your lexicon. All inspirational people who achieved things "failed" more than a few times in life. "Failures" have the potential to put you off track.
For example, people who start businesses simply think that the money and effort they've wasted is enough to make them never want to start another business. But I personally believe it's about mindset.
As a result, go through life not expecting to fail but knowing that you might. If you do experience "failure," don't let it rule your life. Maintain your attention on your objectives.
It's good to vent about how you feel.
Sometimes, we may be ashamed of our emotions, or when we harbor all our feelings, it's hard to stay positive. It is healthy to open up to someone who supports you no matter what. Discuss your feelings and get advice.
If you are nervous about how to begin opening up, start off by revealing things little by little at a pace you're comfortable with. Once you do, it'll help boost your confidence to voice how you feel.
It's a good idea to practice daily affirmations.
Is there a quote that boosts your spirits or motivates you no matter what? There are countless affirmations you can tell yourself, from "I got this" to "What's meant for me will be for me." Figure out your daily mantra so you can say it to yourself when you're feeling low. Repeat it silently or in your head, though — you don't want to frighten anyone around you!
Eat your way to happiness.
Certainly, everyone should always try to eat well, but it's essential to be mindful of what you eat when you're going through a hard time. Fried onion rings and cheese or chocolate fondue might be comfort foods, but it's easier to feel tired when you consume it, which will likely put you in a bad mood.
To stay as positive as you can, eat fresh, healthy foods such as good old fruits and veggies, drink plenty of water, and treat your body right! You'll have more energy to get through the hurdles.
Find your passion project.
Being positive is easier to do when you care about something. Having a hard time doesn't mean you aren't productive. Whether that goal is to learn how to play the ukulele or complete a home project, take the time to figure out what you want to set your sights on, and let that be your creative mojo when you're in a rut.
What helped me discover my passion project was taking in all the experiences around me. I live in New York City, so oftentimes, I walk around taking in the scenery, the culture, and the food around me. That's what made me fall in love with music again and embark on that wave again. Also, scope out the internet. My favorite place to hit is YouTube if I need an extra boost of inspiration!
Understand what makes you happy, and stick to it.
It's easy to feel stressed about things such as a hectic workday or negativity, which I have experienced in recent months. As a result, I decided to curl up on my couch with a cup of tea and listen to some ChilledCow lo-fi beats, and I instantly felt better.
Trying new things will always push you out of your comfort zone. There comes the point in everyone's life when they begin to learn something new and fail miserably. Every great, exemplary, or mediocre singer, actress, dancer, businessperson, or athlete has "failed" at some point in their career.
It's not about achieving a goal that makes you happy. The journey you take can help determine how glad you are. It doesn't matter if you become the best in the world; what matters is that you have fun doing it (or at least most of it).
Only focus on the greatness ahead of you.
When things aren't going well, have you ever thought about all the things you've done wrong? It can be tempting to dwell on the negatives of your life when you're in a rut. But keep your eyes on the prize, and you'll overcome the obstacles!
There is hope for your negativity. It is available, and you can use it to lift your spirits. Count your blessings, not your curses. To help with this, get a journal composition notebook or use the notes feature on your smartphone and make a list of all things that you're grateful for. I personally like to aim to write at least three to five great things a day. There are even apps that support gratitude journaling. Personally, I like Gratitude.
