Positive mindsets
Self-talk and self-awareness – the way you talk to and feel about yourself – is the key to learning how to be more positive. Thinking negatively is really just an unhelpful habit that you can unlearn. Even when times are hard and it can feel impossible to have a positive attitude, there are strategies that you can put in place to help protect and improve your mental wellbeing.
Positive thinking usually leads to positive outcomes and is known to be good for your mental wellbeing. For ideas on how to develop a positive mindset, as well as how to remain positive in difficult times, explore our resources below.
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Frequently asked questions about positive mindsets
Building a positive mindset starts with small daily habits like practising gratitude, surrounding yourself with supportive people, and challenging negative thoughts when they arise. Try setting aside five minutes each day to write down three good things that happened, no matter how small. This simple practice can slowly rewire your brain to notice positive things that happen in your life more often.
A positive attitude is like putting on a smile for the day – it's your outward approach to situations. A positive mindset is the internal mental framework that shapes how you interpret and respond to challenges. Think of your mindset as the foundation that supports your attitude. Learning how to remain positive in difficult times comes from developing a positive mindset, which can take time.
Long-term positivity comes from building mental resilience through practices like mindfulness, self-compassion, and focusing on what you can control. Make time for activities that genuinely bring you joy, and build a supportive network of mates who lift you up. Remember that developing a positive mindset is a journey, and it’s important to celebrate your progress along the way.
Research shows that positive thinking can change your brain function, reducing stress hormones while increasing feel-good chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. Positive thinking can help you reduce stress. People who practice positive thinking have lower rates of depression, stronger immune systems, and can even live longer. Developing a positive mindset has both short-term and long-term benefits to your overall wellbeing.
Negative thought patterns can show up as always expecting the worst, taking things personally when they aren't about you, or thinking in all-or-nothing terms like ‘I always mess up’ or ‘nothing ever works out’. You might notice yourself overthinking problems, struggling to see solutions, or feeling constantly stressed and overwhelmed. These are your brain's warning signs that it's stuck in negativity loops, and the good news is that there are things you can do to break negative thought patterns.
Learning how to break free from negative thoughts starts with becoming aware of them. There are lots of different ways to become more aware of your negative thought patterns. You could think about your inner critic in the third person. Challenge unhelpful thoughts by asking, ‘Is this actually true?’. Focus on replacing ‘I can't’ with ‘How can I?’. Set a timer and journal a conversation between your negative and positive thoughts. It’s also important to practice self-compassion by treating yourself with the same kindness you'd offer to a good mate going through a tough time.