1. Read inspirational books.
I know some of you may think you are not much of a reader. But I guarantee that there are books just for you that can affect your life. Inspirational and/or self-help books are a universal way to get to know yourself more and improve your overall lifestyle. I have read What I Know For Sure by, the oh-so-loved, Oprah Winfrey where she discusses what she knows about, well, life and the struggles and glories that come with it. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert discusses the importance of creativity and how to live a more creative life. Both books have opened my eyes on the daily struggles I go through (as many college students do) and how to not only encounter them, but embrace and love them because love is always the solution.
2. Read inspirational/motivational quotes.
I probably do this at least once a day! Whether I’m reading quotes from Pinterest or Instagram accounts like Purplebuddhaproject, I find there seems to be a never ending amount of inspirational quotes out there. It will make you reflect on your life and really think deeply about choices you have made and will make in your bright future.
3. Gratitude journal.
Starting a gratitude journal has affected me tremendously! Once you start writing a few things you are grateful for each day, you spend your day appreciating every little thing you do and have. In many moments of my day, I catch myself really living in the present and being grateful for where I am or what I am doing (even if it is just enjoying a spoonful of ice cream or speaking with a friend I haven’t seen in awhile).
4. Doing what I’m passionate about (yoga, fashion, nature, writing).
Doing things that you actually enjoy doing can improve your mood by a longshot. Why just spend your entire day doing school work when you have the choice to prioritize doing other activities that spark your soul? We all use the excuse of not having enough time, but it’s not a matter of not having enough time, but choosing what to prioritize. I enjoy yoga so I choose to wake up a little earlier to do a few poses, or I occasionally write about anything that is on my mind and let my hand run wild on a piece of paper or laptop keys. If you really love doing something, you have the choice of finding the time to prioritize that into your schedule.
5. Surrounding myself with cool and good people.
Who you surround yourself is a reflection of who you are. So if you want to be more positive, then surround yourself with more positive people. Positivity is contagious, and who you choose to spend your time with can affect how you think and act.
6. Meditating.
Meditating has many positive effects on the mind, body, and soul. It allows you to be at peace with your thoughts and become self aware of what you are feeling and why you are feeling a certain way. That moment of quiet can help you discover more of yourself and appreciate that moment with your beautiful and growing self.
7. Following positive people on social media.
This is similar to surrounding yourself with positive people and/or friends. Social media has a huge influence on us, so what we see or hear on social media or television can affect how we see the world around us. Mimi Ikonn is someone I follow on YouTube and Instagram, and she is a great example of a public figure that spreads positivity to her viewers and the world.he has helped me to do the same!
8. Giving myself more free time to be creative.
Everyone is creative in their own way and this can be expressed through art, writing, or even problem solving. Creativity opens up your mind and can distract you from any other struggles you might be going through. I recently made a vision board that reflects what I want my future to look like. Vision boards can be a powerful way to actually attain your dreams because it is the first thing I see when I wake up and it reminds me of what I am working towards. I also tried to help my friend film her YouTube channel despite my lack of knowledge of filming. But I know I craved more creativity so I decided to do something new. You can explore your creativity in different ways, as long as it is something you love to do and it allows you to express yourself and your talents. *Bonus points if it’s something you’re not experienced in!*
9. Lots of self reflecting.
Being honest with yourself can be very difficult, but it helps you understand your emotions, what you want, and who you are. It can be the difference between being stagnant and not growing as a person and realizing what it is you need to change about your thoughts or lifestyle to start living the life you want to live. This requires alone time with your thoughts and an open mind to welcome any changes you need to make in your life to become the person you were always meant to be.
10. Overall have a more positive mindset.
Train your mind to see the good in every situation and embrace every emotion you feel. Even if it’s anger or sadness you are feeling, be gentle with yourself and remind yourself that things will somehow fall into place and you will be all right. A positive mind really leads to a more positive and happy life.