Modern literature is filled with references to positive thinking. With so many definitions of positive thinking out there---some of which are misleading and unrealistic---confusion arises. The most effective form of positive thinking, as advocated by MayoClinic.com, might be better termed "constructive thinking" because it does not require you to affirm what you do not believe, nor does it ask you to deny the reality of your circumstances.
Internal Awareness
Positive thinkers develop the habit of monitoring their own thoughts. Although this takes time and practice, a consistent effort will eventually make it second nature to you. The purpose of thought monitoring is to learn to identify counterproductive thinking patterns such as "I always mess things up" or "Things will never get better." There are many different types of counterproductive thinking, and they do not always correspond to pleasant and unpleasant thoughts---denying an unpleasant reality might feel good in the short run, but it is decidedly counterproductive in the long run.
Thought Control
Once a positive thinker becomes aware of his own thinking patterns, he should consciously intervene in order to replace counterproductive thinking patterns with constructive ones, according to MayoClinic.com. Instead of brooding over whether a particular event is "good" or "bad" for example, the positive thinker realizes that these terms are mere labels. You should use your mind to find a constructive way to respond such as how to use the extra time that results from the loss of a job, for example.
Self-Respect
Self-respect is a precondition to self-confidence. Without self-confidence, you will be less likely to take action since there's no perceived hope for success. A positive thinker does not wait for circumstances or events to prove that he is worthy of self-respect. Don't waste time debating your own worthiness based on your resume or how your spouse treats you. Simply assume that you're just as good as anyone else and proceed accordingly.
Desires
Desire is life's most powerful motivator. But in order to take action, you must have a direction. If the direction of your life has been mapped out for you by others and is not consistent with your true desires, it is unlikely that you will be strongly motivated to move forward. Sometimes, however, it may be difficult to consider any other direction and you may have have lost touch with your own desires. The positive thinker spends quiet time alone in search of her own desires and in developing concrete plans to bring them to fruition.
Following Through
Positive thinkers are people of action. Once you have seized conscious control of your thoughts and desires, it will be time to move. Dramatic action is not necessary---you may choose to aim for a series of small actions that lead to gradual, incremental progress along the road to your dreams. Once you have taken even a small action in support of your dreams, reflect on what you have done and make a conscious effort to use it to encourage yourself to take further action.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Positive Thinking--Reduce Stress, Enjoy Life More
- Psychology Today: The Power of Positive Thinking--Put in Perspective
- Psychology Today: Why Positive Thinking is Bad for You
- Counseling for Your Success: Ways to Enhance Positive Thought Patterns
- Self Growth: Seven Steps for Positive Thinking
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