Some people have a particular quality that can radiate positive energy and embody an inherent goodness. We may be blessed to have a certain predisposition to positivity, or sometimes not …but not all is lost. Positivity can also be learned, a bit like a muscle. The more positivity is activated and nurtured, the stronger positivity becomes. Smiling is a sign of positivity. The more we smile, the more connected we can be. We are connected with ourselves and the people around us. No need to think too hard, just be!
One such person was Dame Deborah James, the ‘bowel babe’, with her infectious positivity as she coped with stage 4 cancer, inspired so many people to face adversity with a rebellious hope. Her family, when announcing her passing, praised Deborah as an inspiration. She broke down negative barriers and taboos to change the conversation around cancer. Indeed, positivity can have a powerful, lasting legacy.
I think that we want to be the ‘best we can be’. Like a guiding light, positivity gives us meaning and purpose. Sometimes, life gets in the way… relationships, work, health, money concerns, and competing commitments can stop us from moving on. However, positivity is the practice of being optimistic when we can engage in positive thinking, emotions, and behaviours (such as kindness, generosity, care for self and others, hope and courage). Such behaviours can be attractive and engaging.
A positive mindset can be a choice. Your mind is a potent tool. Research indicates that positivity can influence all of us, including our children when we cope with stress, decision-making, anxiety, resilience and mental fitness to turn the tide of negativity. Of course, positivity is not a miracle ‘cure for everything’, and we need to guard against being foolhardy or reckless.
Five tips for embodying positivity today:
Acceptance… accept things as they are… we are limited in what we can change. Avoid negativity and negative situations that some people create.
Self-compassion… be kind to yourself (and others) to enhance and allow your holistic ‘well-being’. This builds your self-esteem and has a positive influence on your subconscious mind.
Enhance your relationships… positivity is infectious, not only with your family and friends but also in the workplace. Work can be stressful and challenging. A sense of resilience can increase performance, satisfaction and stamina. Surround yourself with positive people… negativity, from others, can drag you down.
Practise positive tools… such as:
· Breathing exercises…that allow you to relax and find ‘your special place’,
· Yoga is terrific for the body, heart, and mind
· Meditation… to develop and maintain a positive state of mind
· Visualisation… to imagine the best possible outcomes and fulfil your dreams
· Journalling… to record your thoughts, emotions and feelings… reflect and get your creativity juices flowing!
Make simple changes and adopt steps for healthy lifestyle choices… You can consider working on your diet to boost energy levels and weight control. The way we look and feel can be significant influences on how you ‘can be the best person you can be.’ Consider exercise, either with friends, family or even by yourself, to boost your mood and energy levels… go for a walk, take in the fresh air, reconnect, and explore the wonders of nature.
Positivity can also be the tiniest thing that brings fun into your day. Watch positivity radiate from the faces of old and young alike… know the difference that it can make. When you sense that things are going your way, I’ll leave it to you to judge for yourself whether positivity can improve a deep dive for your health and well-being. So is your glass ‘half-empty’ or, through adopting a positive outlook in life, ‘half full’?
This article first appeared in the 'Ayrshire Magazine'.
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