Everyone I’ve ever confessed to about my overthinking and anxiety has always had one solution for me— ‘Why don’t you try being more positive?’. It seemed like this was the standard response to all of my problems but for a person who is generally pessimistic, it was an overestimation of my capabilities.
For a long time, I’ve self-analysed my thoughts to come to the conclusion that I do tend to think of the worst when a situation is presented to me. So, as an exercise, I decided to consciously alter my thoughts, give myself the reassurance I seek and see the changes that I could make in my own life. Here are the honest results.
a) It takes patience and commitment
You will get pessimistic thoughts even if you don’t want them to occur. So, I tried a different approach. Every time I had a bad thought or I was overthinking something, I’d try to think of something positive and turn it into a good thought instead. Of course, this isn’t the most scientific way to deal with mental illness and I am sure mental health experts would beg to differ, but this approach worked for me. Call it placebo or just a really strong will, I managed to think more positive thoughts with this practise. One has to be committed to the bigger cause and be gentle with your own growth.
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b) I was more confident
Self-assurance is a strong weapon. Everyone around me began complimenting me on how I seemed more lively and enthusiastic. Deep inside, I knew having control over my mind and my thoughts was helping me.
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c) The good mood was more prolonged
Usually a bout of good thoughts was time-bound but with this conscious exercise, I noticed that I was happier for longer. I am more interested in new opportunities and do not need to seek out validation like I did before.
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d) People can notice your positivity
When I am positive, I am genuinely happier and it shows. No wonder the saying goes, ‘Happy people are the most beautiful’ because, in my case, it has turned out to be true.
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e) You’re still going to have your moments
The negative thoughts are still going to haunt you once in a while. However, when they come, it is easier and more fruitful to accept them and move towards a more positive space instead of fixating on them, like I used to. I try breathing exercises when I find myself experiencing negative thoughts and I try and change my mind space as best as possible. This acceptance has changed my outlook towards life.
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f) It taught me the power of positivity and affirmations
Positivity is infectious and this one week taught me the power of it.
Disclaimer: These views reflect the author’s personal experiences, not the opinions of a medical practitioner. If you experience mental health issues, contact a therapist or psychiatrist.
Lead image credit: Author’s Own
