POP Part Two: Using Positive Statements
Last time,we talked about the importance of positive
thinking. This post will be about specific thoughts or strategies that we can
use to think positive or be optimistic.
Of course, some of us have difficulty imagining that we will
be 'talking positive' to ourselves. But it really isn't all that strange - you
need not say these things out loud. Sometimes, even silently thinking to
yourself can be a major mood-booster.
I'll give you an example. Last week, I was extremely
frustrated and overwhelmed. I was busy with exams, classes, gatherings,
friends, meetings, and more. And I wanted it all to just STOP. I wanted to run
away from everything. For everything to just stop being loud, busy, and hectic
all the time. I wanted to quit everything.
What kept me going? After I vented my feelings to my family
and close friends, I realized something important: I was busy. Yes. But I was
doing what I loved. I was busy with things that I loved. I was busy achieving
my goals and dreams. Despite the challenges, I knew that I was working hard
for a purpose. And I realized that I was not alone. I had support. I had love.
I had passion, strength, and motivation. I had dreams. I had hope.
The next thing I knew, I was saying positive thoughts to
myself in my head.
'You can do this".
"You have done hard things before".
"You are strong. You are not alone. You have the love
and support of family, friends, and God".
"You will get through this, just like you have done
before. And this will make you stronger. You will learn so much. You will look
back at this and see how much you have achieved".
"This is hard. But it will end. Tough times never
last".
And so on. At first, I did not feel significantly different.
But after a couple of different thoughts, I felt...motivated. I felt less stressed.
I felt like a small burden had been lifted off my shoulders. I felt as though I
could do this. I could survive. I WOULD survive.
And I did. I am still super busy. And sometimes, I still get
overwhelmed and feel stressed all over again. But thinking the positive
thoughts make a big difference. They help me realize that tough times truly
never last, and that I will get through them. Positivity reminds me that
life is not all negative, that there are happy moments full of smiles, dreams,
and hope. Optimism reminds me to slow down, to take time to breathe.
Try it out! Think positive thoughts when you are feeling
down. Allow yourself to express your difficult emotions, but then talk to
yourself - help yourself see what is good about your situation, you support,
your personality, or your strengths. Remember that you are not alone. You
WILL get through this. Think positive....that is POP!
