“Choose happiness”.
It’s a very common phrase, and a controversial one as well. Let’s face it- being happy all of the time is a pretty difficult task, especially if you’re a young adult who is learning how to mature and handle problems on your own. Have you ever been down about something and someone says “cheer up!” and it just makes you feel worse? Yeah, me too. Happiness is not the easiest thing to just choose to be. It’s a journey, and you may not be ready to make that journey yet, which is absolutely okay. If I could tell you how to be a constantly smiley person, I would! But just like anyone else, I have good and bad days. If you’re finding yourself feeling like you have more bad than good days, then consider taking a look at this advice on how to lead a more positive life! Once you’ve started, it only goes uphill from there.
Radiate positivity into others’ lives.
You tend to get back what you send into the world and to the people in it. Not from everyone, and not every time, but it still matters. Not only does it help that person feel better, but it also helps you become more optimistic. The more you help others to make positivity a priority, the more it affects your mindset as well. So listen to your friend’s troubles, smile at a stranger, give more hugs, and offer encouragement to people who need it. The feeling of helping others is so rewarding. Imagine that feeling, but DOUBLE. That’s what you’ll feel like when you make the step to help yourself.
Try not to make a big deal out of something small.
This is something mostly everyone struggles with, so you’re not alone. However, it really takes a weight off of your soul when you clear your mind of all the little things bothering you. Think of it like this: will this thing matter to me in 5-10 years? Quite often, if you’re worrying about little things, then the answer is no, in which case- stop worrying so much! I often get extremely stressed about tests in school, which has a negative impact on my mindset. Then I remind myself: I’m probably going to barely remember taking this chemistry test in 5 years, so why am I stressing so much? Just try to look at the bigger picture, and you’ll start feeling more positive.
Create a positive environment for yourself.
Though the most obvious and the most vague, this one really helped me start my journey to a more positive life. You don’t need to surround yourself with all positive people- you might go crazy. It’s always okay and helpful to vent to someone and them relate, rather than respond with how your situation could be worse. No matter how big or small your problems are, they still have value and it is totally okay to be upset sometimes. That’s human nature. What you should do, though, is find at least one person who leads a positive life and spend time with them. Their positivity will rub off on you and it’s seriously super helpful. Also, try to take some time out of your day to do something you love- whether it’s reading, watching YouTube, sleeping, etc. – it is so refreshing and beneficial for your mind.
If you try out each of these tips, you will be on your way to becoming a more positive person! Just know- it is completely normal and healthy to not feel happy and optimistic all of the time. Props to those of you who can do it- you’re awesome- but for the rest of you, I’m proud of you for starting your journey! If you ever need someone to talk to, DM me and I will always be here to support you! Have a great week and remember to be positive.