

Consider trying some techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, which works in part by looking at how changing your thoughts can change your life. But research shows that you can learn to shift your thoughts and that, over time, you can literally change your brain. Change unhealthy self-talk. You may have been running negative messages in your head for a long time.Distract yourself: Go to a movie, pump up some music, find something fun to do.Instead of just spinning your worry wheels, try a concrete problem-solving exercise.Chances are you'll feel better by the appointed time. Tell yourself you'll worry about it at a specific time later.Will this issue matter in a year, for example? Ask yourself if the issue is really worth your energy.In a study of test-takers, those who fixated on worrisome thoughts performed worse than those who were distracted from their worries. Focusing on negatives isn't just unpleasant, it also can make you less effective in tackling tasks you face. With practice, you can resist worrisome thoughts and perhaps even transform your internal critic into more of a cheering squad. If you want to feel positive, it pays to decrease the downers in your life. Share your good news. Studies of people's reactions to positive developments suggest that those who tell a friend about a happy event enjoy it even more.Do whatever you can to really soak in the lovelier aspects of your life.


Yes, stop and smell the roses-and look at them and touch them. Write down anything large or small that makes you smile, including terrific achievements, touching moments and great relationships. The letter-writers enjoyed impressive positive effects even a month later. Researcher Martin Seligman, PhD, asked subjects to write a letter thanking someone who had been particularly kind to them and then deliver it in person. Noticing and appreciating the positives in our lives offers a great mood boost.
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But our worry-filled thoughts can present dangers of their own: Thinking negatively can drag down our moods, our actions and even our health.Įxperts say it's worthwhile-and possible-to learn how to think more positively.Ĭonsider what researchers found about the benefits of staying positive: It's likely our species survived because of our knack for detecting danger.
