The Power of Positivity: 6 Simple Tips for Staying Upbeat
Life can be challenging, and it isn’t always going to go your way. When faced with a difficult situation, however, you have two choices: dwell in negativity or buck up and carry on. While positivity often seems to be a character trait that some have and others don’t, it’s also an attitude you can learn to cultivate.
If you’re tired of being down in the dumps, pour yourself a tall, refreshing glass of Matcha Fresca Tea, and settle in with these simple tips for staying upbeat.
Start each and every day with a smile
We all have days where we get up on the wrong side of the bed, but when those days happen the best thing you can do is get back in bed and hop out the other side – figuratively, anyway. Even if you’re not feeling great, forcing a smile can actually change your attitude. The act of smiling can “trick” your brain into thinking you’re happy which opens neural pathways that influence your emotional state. In other words, faking a smile can lead to a genuine smile.[1]
Don’t waste your energy on negative people
Life is too short to spend it around people who bring you down and separating yourself from toxic people is an act of self-care. Take stock of the relationships in your life and think about which ones bring you joy, and which ones are a source of stress. Start prioritizing the positive relationships in your life and weed out the toxicity. There’s nothing wrong with learning to say “no” to people who constantly take without giving anything back.
Do something you enjoy every day
It’s easier to maintain a positive attitude when you’re having a good time. If you spend all your time juggling obligations, you’re going to get worn down and it will have a negative impact on your attitude. We all have things we need to get done but making a little time to do something you enjoy every day makes a difference. Listen to your favorite podcast over breakfast, go for a walk during lunch, or relax with a good book and a soothing mug of Egyptian Chamomile Tea after dinner.
Cultivate an attitude of gratitude
When everything seems like it’s going wrong, it’s easy to dwell in negativity. The best way to pull yourself out of a rut is to remind yourself of all you have to be thankful for. Research shows that gratitude is strongly associated with improved happiness, and it can even relieve stress.[2] Try spending 15 minutes before bed with a hot cup of Sleep Tea and a journal, writing down one thing you’re grateful for. Over time, gratitude will become a habit and it will help you maintain your positivity.
Be a positive influence in your community
When you’re feeling stressed and overburdened, cracking a smile takes a lot of energy. In moments like this, sometimes the best thing you can do is try to make someone else smile instead. Look for opportunities to help others in your community, whether it’s lending a hand at the local food pantry, mowing an elderly neighbor’s lawn, or sending a text to check in on a loved one. Smiles are contagious, so by helping someone else you could also be helping yourself.
Make physical and mental health a priority
It’s easier to maintain a positive attitude when you’re feeling mentally and physically well, so make it a priority to take care of yourself. Get plenty of exercise, follow a healthy diet, and get the help you need to support your mental health. Sometimes all you need is a trusted friend to lend you an ear, but if you’re struggling with anxiety or depression, online counseling could help.
People who are pessimistic tend to live shorter lives, so if you want to enjoy all life has to offer for as long as possible, choose positivity.[3] With a little bit of practice, and by following the tips above, you can adjust your attitude and start seeing the sunny side of things instead of the rainclouds.
[1] https://econtent.hogrefe.com/doi/10.1027/1618-3169/a000470 [2] https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier#:~:text=In%20positive%20psychology%20research%2C%20gratitude,adversity%2C%20and%20build%20strong%20relationships. [3] https://www.bu.edu/articles/2019/optimists-live-longer/ Shop Art of Tea