Keep smiling; there’s power in positivity

I’m very much a “glass is half-full” kind of girl. It’s so easy to be negative but the truth is, it doesn’t get you anywhere. Having a positive outlook takes some effort at first but once you get into the swing of it, it comes naturally.

Don’t get me wrong, I have negative thoughts. Sometimes I compare myself to others, regret decisions I’ve made or spent too long dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. I don’t ignore these thoughts, it’s difficult not to.

Instead, I let myself think about them for a bit. Not too long, just briefly. Then I put a stop to them and switch my thoughts to something positive. It takes practise but if a chronic worrier like me can do it, anyone can. Once you start replacing negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll have positive results.

I think about anything that makes me happy. Something as simple as my favourite song, having an early night with clean bedsheets, catching up on a tv programme (Love Island is my guilty pleasure at the moment!) or treating myself to a new pair of shoes.

Those are just examples. Little things that put a smile on my face. There are big things too – like my wonderful family, friends, lovely colleagues and Coco the dog. Not forgetting my health, that’s an important one too.

My top tip is to write things down to look forward to. Whenever I’m feeling a bit down, I make a list of things to look forward to. Not only does it distract me from any negative thoughts but it also gives me reasons to keep going. I have a whole list of things to be excited about!

No matter what is going on in your life, there are ALWAYS things to smile about. It can feel like everything is against you but changing your attitude can make the world of difference. Focus on the positives, even if they’re small and hold onto them. Remember, sadness is always temporary. Keep smiling!