To achieve a positive mental attitude (PMA) you need to let go of negative, defeatist thinking and find a mental place of hope and optimism. Some people seem to do this naturally, but anyone can achieve a PMA with a desire and consistent work. The trick is to create a mindset that seeks and finds contentment, hope or even happiness in the moment, regardless of the circumstances, and then to apply that to future goals and plans.
Step 1
Turn that little voice in your head into a positive one. Everyone has a voice that speaks to them. Unfortunately, many hear far more negative and defeatists thoughts then positive ones. Every time your voice says, "I can't" or "That is too hard for me," think of five positive thoughts to counter it. "I can't," can become "I can!", "Last year I did....", or "Maybe I will learn something if I try."
Step 2
Plan for the future and then live in the moment. It is much easier to be positive and hopeful when you have hopes and dreams for the future and are taking step to reach them. Create short-term and long-term goals and then figure out small steps you can take each day, week, month and year to achieve them. Usually negative, defeatist thoughts have to do with our past failures, mistakes and inadequacies. There is nothing you can do to change the past, so don't dwell on it. Know the moment you are in and live that, keeping an eye on those future goals.
Step 3
Create wonder in your life. Spend time everyday experiencing something new. Take a class, read, look up something that caught your interest on the Internet, walk a new route, stop and observe rain drops in the puddle or try a new food. Even if you spent every moment of your life trying new things, you would never run out. It is hard not to have a PMA when there are amazing things around you.
Step 4
Help others. It is hard not to find value in yourself when you are doing something meaningful for the world or those who inhabit it. Volunteer, read to a child, make a meal for a friend, stop and listen to someone who needs an ear or throw away liter. Find small or big ways to help the world and/or those around you. With each act your PMA will increase.
Member Comments