Do you want to learn how to keep those positive vibes going on your most stressful days? If so, you’re not alone. Stress is something that affects everyone at some point in their life because let’s face it, life can be stressful, and it’s impossible to go through life without having some bad days. However, what makes all the difference is how we respond to the stress life brings. You have a choice. Do you let it get in the way and ruin your entire day, or do you turn things around with positivity?
Try these five tips to stay positive even when it’s the absolute last thing you want to do. After all, no one has time to let stress get in the way of making the most of each day.
1. Be Thankful
One of the best ways to keep those positive vibes going each day is to take a step back and think about what you are thankful for. If you are feeling negative vibes or you are just having one of those crazy stressful days, try jotting down five things you appreciate. It is so much easier to turn a stressful day around when you really think about all the wonderful things you do have. It shifts your mind from focusing on the negative to focusing on the positive. This is one of the quickest and easiest ways to start getting those positive vibes going again and to get back on track to conquer life with a smile on your face.
In fact, writing a gratitude list may be so effective that it can literally help train your brain to be more positive. In a TED Talk by Shawn Anchor called “The Happy Secret to Better Work,” Anchor suggests spending a couple of minutes each day journaling about a positive experience that happened over the last 24 hours. Following the journaling, Anchor suggests exercising and then meditating. Lastly, he recommends sending an email to someone that you appreciate expressing your gratitude for them, or simply just doing something kind for someone else. By practicing this routine it is possible to create ripples of positivity and optimism to banish negativity and brighten your day.
We challenge you to try this exercise daily to see what it can do for you.
2. Put Things Into Perspective
Have you heard of the saying, “this too shall pass?” When things get chaotic, and you feel like your day is spiraling out of control, repeat to yourself “this too shall pass.” Remember that you have been capable of getting through a bad day before, so what’s different about this one? Remind yourself that tomorrow will be better and that YOU have the power to turn your day around and make it enjoyable starting right now.
3. Breathe
As simple as it sounds, sometimes all we need to get through stress is to take a deep breath. Under stress, many people tend to hold their breath or have shallow breathing, which only causes your body more tense. Try to be more mindful of how your breathing is when you are stressed out. Deep breathing helps to activate the parasympathetic nervous system which will help ease tension and put your mind into a more relaxed state.
When taking a deep breath, focus on expanding your stomach to make sure your breaths are deep enough to be able to truly calm yourself and combat your stress. After, you should feel rejuvenated and ready to carry on with the day.
4. Prioritize
When we are stressed, things can seem out of control and unorganized. Not only will prioritizing ease stress, but it will also make you feel accomplished, which can help bring more positivity into your day. If you feel like you have too much going on, take a step back and ask yourself what has to get done most urgently. Make a list and tackle the most important things first. Focusing your attention on top priority items and then making your way down the list will help you stay focused and set the rest of your day up for success.
5. Take a Time Out
We all have those stressful days when you wish you could just slip away for a minute, and that’s ok. In fact, it’s recommended. No matter how busy you are or how much you have to do, if you feel overwhelmed and need a break, do it. Taking a small 5-10 minute regroup session can help you feel more positive and rejuvenated for the rest of the day.
Try these techniques during your personal timeout:
Pause. Stop everything and let your body relax. Look away from what you were doing, let your shoulders drop, stretch, and allow your mind to calm down.
Breathe Deeply. Close your eyes and take several deep conscious breaths in and out and think about something that makes you happy.
Be Mindful. Be aware of the present moment including your thoughts and feelings. It can positively change the way you feel about the challenge in front of you.
Conclusion
Remember, stress and mood don't go hand-in-hand. A stressful day doesn’t have to ruin your positive mood. In fact, staying positive is the best way to get through periods of stress. Try implementing these five tips to have a positive day every day despite the chaos life throws your way.
