If you are experiencing tough times, it is difficult not to harbor negative thoughts. With the holidays in full swing it’s a time of good cheer, and if you’re going to be spending time with family and friends, you want to try to make the best of your time. Most importantly-for yourself.
If you’re used to dealing with negative thinking, you might not even realize you’re doing it. These types of thoughts are called automatic negative thoughts. For those who do and do not realize you are negative thinking, we want to help change that. Here are some tips on how you can flip those negative thoughts into positive ones and enjoy a great time with those you love during this holiday season.
Over-thinking Never Helps
One way to shift your mindset from negative to positive thinking is to limit the amount of time you think about one thing. Of course, there are situations you just can’t help thinking about – but you need to try to reframe your thoughts from the negative aspect of that topic and focus on the other potential aspect of it. Try to focus on the things that you do have control over. Think positively about how you can manage those situations. Always be positive and look for solutions rather than dwelling on the problem itself.
Change Your Attitude
Our general attitude towards life ultimately affects our thought process. If you are overly critical about every little thing and everyone around you, you are more than likely to have negative thoughts. After changing your attitude to people and life, you will likely find that your negative thought process will naturally shift. Also, when you shift your focus toward the good in people rather than the bad, you will begin to have more positive thoughts. Have a better perspective of life, and people will naturally gravitate towards you – which is exactly what you need during the holidays!
Use Positive Words Always
Do you know that when you use negative words in your sentences it can adversely affect your thought process in its entirety? If you constantly use the words “No”, “can’t” and “never” – it actually lingers in your mind.
A great saying is “it takes 100 positives to erase one negative”.
Using negative words will lead you to think negatively. Change your mindset – say YES more often, and say “I can” … If you aren’t feeling very happy and someone asks you “How are you doing today?”; rather than responding with “Not good”, try saying something more like “Fine, thanks, but I could be better”. This is great positive reinforcement allowing you to acknowledge that there are better feelings out there. Positive words help lift spirits.
Seek Professional Help
Finally, if your negative thinking is driving you to a point of depression, it would be best to seek professional help. Having a one-on-one therapy session may be all you need to help eradicate those constant negative thoughts so you can get through or even enjoy the holiday. Get in touch today if you need further advice or assistance and get ready to enjoy the festive cheer, rather than dread it.