About Positive Thinking

Positive thinking is an empowerment tool that can enhance the quality of life. Everyone has the choice of thinking positively or negatively, but whichever is chosen, more of it will show up in life. Think positively and you will gain enjoyment from life, laugh more, be more productive and have fun.

Identification

• Positive thinking involves any of the following emotions: joy, knowledge, passion, empowerment, freedom, love, appreciation, enthusiasm, eagerness, happiness, belief, optimism, hopefulness and contentment. Positive thinking incites feelings of happiness, inspiration and encouragement.

History

• The use of positive thinking for self-improvement has been discussed and popularized by the media in the past decade, but is not a new concept. In the 17th century, John Milton, author of "Paradise Lost," states, "The mind is a place of its own. It can make a heaven of hell, or a hell of heaven." The meaning: even if you are living a life envied by many, you will remain miserable because your sole focus is on negative aspects. Books such as The Secret or the series written by Jerry and Esther Hicks on the law of attraction are among many that encourage people to take charge of their life by taking control of their thoughts and thinking positively.

Theories/Beliefs

• The belief that "thoughts are things" brings about the concept that "good thoughts cause good things." People seek to think more positively because of the life enhancements it can bring such as material wealth, financial wealth, friends, a loving family, a good career, success, love, even age-defying beauty. Everyone is in control of their own thoughts, therefore they can control their environment.

Benefits

• Positive thinkers have less (negative) stress by combating fear, worry and insecurity with thoughts and imagery of confidence, love, belief. Think positively and avoid depression, live longer, increase immunity, increase physical well-being, and cope with hard times more easily, according to researchers. Happy people tend to attract more happy people, so maintaining a good attitude will bring positive people into your life.

Think Positively

• Fight the tendency toward negative thoughts by saying something positive -- and true -- after every negative thought. For instance, after thinking, "I'm fat," say, "My hair is beautiful." Partake in uplifting books, shows and music, and avoid gore-filled movies, violent songs and bad news stories. Start a journal of gratitude and write down a few things you appreciate in your life to start the mental process of looking on the bright side. Make every activity or chore as fun as possible to make life enjoyable.