Sometimes the best thing we can do to get our ass in gear is to change our attitude. Of course, this is much easier said than done and does not happen overnight; it’s a lifelong journey, but it’s worth it. So, how do we get motivated when lassitude sets in? How do we turn a pessimistic attitude into an optimistic one? If the outlook is bleak, do we simply put on rose-colored glasses and pretend, or can we actually alter our state of mind with positive thinking?
Get Motivated with Positive Thinking
“The Pessimist Sees Difficulty In Every Opportunity. The Optimist Sees Opportunity In Every Difficulty.” – Winston Churchill
- A positive attitude is much healthier than a negative one.
- In order to improve your outlook, think of everything that’s going right in your life, rather than what’s not working out.
- Make a list of affirmations.
- Try to surround yourself with feel-good, intelligent people. The right friends can be the most wonderful sort of inspiration.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
- Reward yourself. Give yourself a pat on the back when you accomplish a goal!
- Start the day off right with a healthy breakfast. Make your bed in the morning. These routines will get you moving on a positive path.
Put in the Work and Reap the Benefits
- If you work towards your goals, there will be a payoff (maybe not immediately but don’t lose heart).
- Try to make progress every day, even if you’re only taking baby steps. Start small.
It’s a Trick Sometimes…
Sometimes you have to trick yourself into feeling optimistic when things get stressful. In order to de-stress and get motivated, try these helpful tips:
- Treat yourself to something you want but do not necessarily need.
- Have a drink (or two).
- CBD oils: tinctures or topical creams are wonderful for soothing minor aches and pains.
- Exercise, stretching, breathing: start the day with a good stretch; limber up your body and mind.
- Talk therapy: phone a friend.
- A big cup of coffee: what would we do without caffeine in the morning?
- Go to your happy place…(and this means doing whatever you have to do to feel good). Practice self-care: Listen to your favorite music, shampoo your hair, mist on some perfume, accept affection from those near and dear…do something that brings about a simulacrum of happiness, and then think about the things you want and need to do. Then make a list. Realize that you live your life one day at a time and, every day, attempt something on your list. Keep track of your progress. Take things as they come and try not to sweat the small, insignificant stuff. I know it’s a cliché, but it can be a lifesaver, too.
