This article provides strategies that will encourage you to remain positive, empower you show up as your best self, practice mindfulness and live with a grateful heart.
“Life’s battles don’t always go to the stronger or faster man. But sooner or later, the man who wins is the man who thinks he can.”
– Vince Lombardi
Our memory is very powerful. You could be going about your day, driving home, cooking or even talking to others when memories start to flood your mind. These could be great memories, times when you accomplished your goals, priceless moments you've shared with loved ones, a time when God answered your prayers or times when you were brave and you conquered your biggest fears. It could have have happened in your childhood or even 5 years ago but these memories spark up the same emotions you felt at the time, feelings of excitement, joy and even fulfillment.
On the contrary, you could be going about your day and suddenly your mind brings up bad memories. You could remember a time when you experienced loss, betrayal or moments when you felt alone. If you ponder on these thoughts long enough they can make you feel sad, discouraged and even hopeless.
A key takeaway from both these scenarios is that pondering on good & pleasant memories makes us feel, happy, inspired, empowered and content. Which may lead us to getting more things done, showing up, and pushing ourselves out of our comfort zones. While, paying too much attention to hurtful and painful experiences leaves us feeling upset, overwhelmed, fearful and sometimes anxious about the future. Which may result in us withdrawing from people, becoming less motivated to accomplish our goals and having a negative outlook on life.
The importance of focusing on the good
Lets face it, life happens. We will experience both positive and negative things. We will go through seasons of triumph and seasons when life isn't going our way. It's interesting that our minds will often focus on the negative. Studies show that a person will focus on R500 they've lost, more than the R500 they have gained. That's because negative or painful situations carry more weight and require a lot more time to be processed.
Knowing this allows us to be proactive and intentional about focusing on the good. A great way to do this is by filling your mind with the things you have done right, your accomplishments, times when you overcame hard situations, and the good breaks God has given you.
Four strategies on how to focus on the positive & remind yourself of the good times
These 4 strategies will encourage you to remain positive, empower you show up as your best self, practice mindfulness and live with a grateful heart.
1.Be intentional & keep a journal of the good things that have happened in your life
You can name it "answered prayers, moments of joy, moments of triumph, or my testimonies". Name it whatever makes you feel inspired, confident and grateful. Writing down your thoughts will make you feel good & cultivate mindfulness. Reflecting on this journal will leave you feeling grateful and appreciative of the great moments in your life.
2. Keep a folder of good and positive memories on your phone or laptop
Go through this folder when you feel discouraged, upset or hopeless. It will remind you that life is sweet and you have experienced goodness and it will surely happen again.
3. Pay attention to your thoughts
This will allow you to redirect the negative thoughts into positive thoughts. When you find yourself focusing on your weaknesses remind yourself of your strengths and give yourself an example of how you have used that strength for the good and it worked in your favour.
4. Celebrate!!
In the bible we see how God commanded the people in the old testament to celebrate through different festivals and events. They also built monuments, and memorial stones which would remind them of times God provided a breakthrough, healed them, answered their prayers.
I encourage your to adopt this principle, create yearly or monthly reminders of the good things that have happened in your life...Remember and celebrate the day you started your business, the day you got your job, the day you or your loved one got were healed, the day you graduated, or the awards and accolades you have received. It is good to celebrate anniversaries and birthdays with other people but be careful of only celebrating things that include other people, celebrate yourself.
Implementing these strategies have the power to leave you feeling encouraged, positive and looking forward to achieving more great things. Focus on the positive & remind yourself of the good times. Give yourself grace each day and to be kind to yourself under all circumstances, build a good and happy relationship with yourself and you will reap the rewards for the rest of your life.
“Promise yourself that you will talk health, happiness, and prosperity as often as possible.”
– John Wooden