1. Observe your thoughts.
The first place to start is by observing your thoughts -- even if it's just for 10 minutes. Since we're creatures of habit, you may notice that you have the same negative thoughts creeping up in your mind. Are you anxious about an upcoming trip? Are you stressed out at work? Are you upset about a fight you had with your spouse?
Once you know what negative thoughts are bothering you the most, you can start working on a solution to resolve the problem. For example, if you're really bothered by a co-worker, then approach your boss with the problem and ask if you can be moved to another part of the office where you don't have to interact with them as much.
2. Scan for the 3 daily positives.
Before you go to sleep you can easily train your brain. Reflect on your day and think about three good things that happened to you that day. Whether if it was someone buying you a cup of coffee, a beautiful sunset or landing a new client. Even the smallest things, like being paid a compliment, having lunch with an old friend or watching your dog roll around are more than enough to make you happy.
3. Give someone a shoutout.
Gratitude is really important. Research has found that showing gratitude can do anything from making you more optimistic to warding off heart disease. A gratitude journal is a good place to start, but I've found that sharing your gratitude is far more beneficial.
It could be anything like thanking an employee or colleague for all of their hard work, a quick catching up email with a friend, complementing your barista or having a nightly discussion like "What was the best part of your day today?" with your spouse.
It may seem a little awkward at first, but trust me, you'll feel excellent when you give someone a shoutout.
4. Help others.
Whether it's helping a swamped colleague on a project, holding open a door, buying a stranger a cup of coffee, donating money or volunteering, any acts of kindness can boost happiness.
5. Surround yourself with positive people.
Since emotions are contagious, it only makes sense that you would want to surround yourself with positive people who inspire, empower and motivate you.
6. Look after your body and mind.
Research has found time and time again that taking care of ourselves physically and mentally can influence our happiness and train our brains to be more positive.
For example, eating healthy, particularly bananas, eggs, blueberries and salmon can boost your spirits.
Exercising for just 20 minutes a day is the best way to release endorphins, which in turn will improve your mood. And, finally, start practicing mindfulness through yoga and meditation. Mindfulness is simply being aware of your thoughts and feelings without judging them as good or bad. An easy mindfulness exercise is to merely set your phone alarm for three separate times during the day. When it buzzes -- stop for one second and take a breath. Even this small break will train your brain to be more balanced.
7. Subconscious re-training and inner healing.
Sometimes in order to become more positive, we have to uncover and then release the past negative experiences that we've been holding onto. Exercises like tapping, daily affirmations, neuro-linguistic programming and mirror work can help you discover and heal these wounds. Additionally, these exercises can help you build a more supportive and affirming belief system that you can use the next time you face any traumatic experiences.
8. Make time to do something that you love.
This may be easier said than done, but one of the best ways to become more positive is making time for something that you absolutely love.
The action doesn't matter. Just make sure you love it. It may be reading, cooking, playing a sport, going to the movies, planning a camping trip with friends or picking up a new hobby. Try to set aside an hour a day by setting boundaries that will free up a little time to something that gives you genuine happiness.
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