If you’re looking for a challenge, we’ve got a fun one for you! But, unlike the adventure challenges you might be used to, this one doesn’t involve jumping out of an airplane or slacklining high above a large body of water. Sorry to all of you thrill-seekers out there! Instead, the goal of this challenge is to help you cultivate a positive mindset.
Your mindset is responsible for, well … a lot! Studies show that a positive mindset improves your immune system, relationships, and even your work success. So, it’s a pretty big deal! And whether you’re extremely positive or downright negative, we could all use a refresher course on positivity. Are you going to accept our challenge?
Be present in the present.
How often do you catch yourself obsessing over an embarrassing thing you did 5 years ago? Or maybe you often find yourself worrying about things that haven’t even happened yet. Remember, you can’t change the past just like you can’t control the future. So, why spend so much time agonizing over both of these things that have one major thing in common—they aren’t even happening right now! Focus on the present and enjoy the simple things you’d normally overlook.
Be your own biggest fan.
You’re awesome, you’re unique, and you’ve got some really cool things to share with the world (we’re not just saying that, it’s true!). And a big part of living a positive life is being proud of the things that make you, you! Cheer for yourself, support yourself, and do more of the things that make you happy. Next time you see yourself in the mirror, give yourself a high-five!
Rise and shine.
Have you ever noticed that when your morning goes well, the rest of your day tends to follow suit? That’s the power of a quality morning routine! Focus on starting off your day with things that make you happy (e.g., a workout, coffee, listening to a podcast). And read this article if you need some direction on establishing a morning routine that works for you!
Eat healthy.
You probably already know that eating your fruits and veggies contributes to a healthy body. But did you know that the foods you eat affect your mood, too? While chips, candy, and cookies will surely make you smile in the moment, try to think about how they’ll make you feel hours or even days later. Aim for a balanced diet and pack in those nutrients!
Be cognizant of your words.
Our words can carry great power and we should always be mindful of the way we use them. They have the power to deeply affect people’s lives—including your own. That’s why it’s so incredibly important to speak words of kindness, always. And that means remaining positive in your self-talk, too (this can be a tough one; check out this article for some pointers).
Surround yourself with positivity.
The people you hang around with are a big indicator of your happiness. For example, if you spend time with people who are constantly bringing you down, you’ll probably feel pretty negative about yourself and life in general. Alternatively, if you hang out with people who are positive and uplifting, you’ll likely follow suit! And it’s not just about hanging out with good people. The things you bring into your home, even the news you consume—these are things that contribute to the quality of your mindset, too. Choose wisely!
Make a plan.
Appointments, work responsibilities, family obligations—life is so busy. But if you write a to-do list of the things you need to do each day, you might find your mindset surrounding those things improves for the better! Read this article for some tips on planning out your day in the way that works best for you.
This challenge isn’t meant to be completed in a day, a week, or even a few months. In fact, this challenge really isn’t meant to be completed at all! At the end of the day, a positive mindset is a journey more so than a destination. So, once you check off all our boxes, go back and check them off again, and again, and again.
