Are you the sort of person who is always positive, with a focus on the good things? Or do you see the world as a half-glass empty type of place?
While it seems like some of us are more inclined to see either the good or bad in the world, the truth is that positivity is simply a mindset. But sometimes when hard times hit, it can be hard to keep thinking positive thoughts.
Having a positive outlook doesn’t mean ignoring life’s difficulties. It can be hard to stay positive when something negative happens.
Here are some tips for learning to be positive, regardless of what life throws at you.
What is meant by “focus on the good”?
Focusing on the good means giving attention to the positive things that have happened in your life more so than the negative things.
Even when you are facing a tough time, the idea is to instead think about the positive aspects, like being grateful for what you do have, and practicing mindfulness.
A positive mindset can make you a happier person
In fact, giving thanks can actually make you happier. Practicing gratitude and giving thanks lead to more positive emotions.
While you still should deal with the bad things as needed, keeping your thoughts on good things can help you more in the long term.
That said, telling someone to stay positive is nice, but how do you actually do it, especially when times get tough?
Here are some key ways to focus on the good during difficult times:
How to stay positive during financial hardship
When you have a large bill to pay or face a sudden financial hardship, it’s challenging to remain joyful. Here are a few ways you can shift your mind to think positive thoughts.
Be thankful
Gratitude is an excellent skill to practice, whichever difficulties you face. Make a list of what you have, whether that’s a nice place to live, a family, a pet, or even things like clothes and other possessions.
Then write out one thing you are thankful for about each of those things until you’ve added something to each item on your list.
Create a budget
Creating a budget that works for you can help you to stay organized and keep track of your expenses. If you need help with creating budgets, there are a lot of different types of budgets out there that you can try.
Make a clear list of your money goals and create a budget to help you get there.
Get outside help
Sometimes things get to be too much. If that’s the case, there’s nothing wrong with getting outside help.
That can mean asking friends and family for advice, seeking the help of a financial advisor, or getting money coaching advice.
Seeking assistance from others can help you see that your situation is temporary, and they can help you think about the good things you do have.
How to focus on the good things when a relationship ends
It can be devastating when a relationship ends. While it can take a while to get over a breakup, there are things that you can do to ease your heartbreak.
Spend time with friends
Spending some time with your friends is a good way to feel positive about your situation. While heartbreak can be overwhelming, spending time with your friends can help you overcome your feelings.
And there’s no easier way to get over someone than when your friends are there with you to tell you how great you are and how your ex doesn’t deserve you anyways!
Write down your good qualities
When faced with a breakup, it’s easy to start questioning yourself and what you did wrong. But sometimes breakups happen for reasons we can’t control.
Instead of beating yourself up over it, write down the things about yourself that you love. Focus on yourself and the good qualities you have.
Live in the present
Rather than analyzing everything that happened in the relationship, try to stay in the moment. Go for a walk, practice meditation, calm your busy brain, or do some yoga.
Try doing something active that keeps your mind focused on the present.
How to think positively when you have a difficult boss
Most people spend about a third of their life at work. When you have a difficult boss, it can be hard to think about the good things instead of the bad. Here are some tips to stay positive.
Create a gratitude journal
One way to focus on the good is to create a gratitude journal. Spend a few minutes every day writing down what it is you are thankful for.
It can be as simple as writing down a few ideas on a notes app on your phone during your work break.
Plan your week
Planning out your week can help you stay focused not only on what you need to do at work, but you can also plan out things that give you joy.
When you’re stressed out at work, think about the things you’re looking forward to instead.
Reward yourself
Dealing with someone who is difficult to work with can be a challenge. Reward yourself for getting through the workday with something you enjoy.
This can be spending time working on a hobby, watching a movie, or going to your favorite cafe for lunch.
How to stay focused on the positive when you lose someone
Losing someone is devastating. While grieving takes time, there are things you can do to stay positive even as you go through the different stages of grief.
Connect with loved ones
When you’ve lost someone, it’s vital to connect with your loved ones. While you may feel like isolating yourself, seeking comfort from others can help you connect with others and honor the person who passed by sharing stories and memories with each other.
Process your feelings as they come
It’s important to process your feelings for your mental health. Processing how you feel is part of the healing process. Whatever you feel, make sure to acknowledge it instead of pushing those feelings away.
Focus on what makes you happy
One way to focus on the good things when someone close to you has passed on is to think about what gives you joy. That can be spending time with friends, a hobby, or watching your favorite series.
How to focus on the good when you lose your job
Losing your job can not only cause financial stress but also lower your self-esteem. Here are some ways to keep a positive mindset even when you’re between jobs.
Stop comparing yourself to others
This one might seem easier said than done. Comparing yourself to others is an easy way to start thinking negative thoughts.
Instead of comparing yourself to your former colleagues or classmates, think about how far you’ve come over the years. Celebrate your progress and your wins.
Give yourself time
Sometimes when you lose your job you need to give yourself time. If you were let go and given a severance package, try to take a break before jumping back into the job market.
It can take some time to adjust and not constantly worry about why you were let go or what went wrong.
Sitting back and reflecting on your career goals can help strengthen your resume and also help you find a positive mindset despite being unemployed.
Find something to laugh about
Laughing is good for the soul and your health. In fact, laughing can help relieve stress.
While losing your job is stressful, finding a few moments to laugh can put you in a better mood, helping you see the good in the situation you are in.
Having a good attitude can help you handle challenging situations better
While having a focus on the good might be easy when times are easy, it becomes more difficult when faced with difficult times.
Instead of letting yourself think negative thoughts, find a way to think about the positive things even as you handle negative things that happen in your life.
Whether you’ve lost a job, or a loved one, or are facing financial hardships, there is hope.
Finding ways to laugh, practice gratitude, and live in the present can help you stay focused on the good things in life despite the difficult times.