Our mind is very good at playing tricks on us. We constantly produce thoughts in our heads, but the brain doesn’t know the difference between thought and reality. The crazy thing is that we can actually train our brain to think happy and positive thoughts. It takes time and practice—but it can be done.
We all want to be happy—well at least I hope so. Live a happy life, be happy, and think happy thoughts. There are going to be periods throughout our lives where we will be really happy. And there are going to be moments where we might be sad and hate everyone and the world. Our brain can produce unhappy and happy thoughts.
Here below, are five tips you can follow for a happy mind.
1.) Happiness comes from within
Your state of happiness is up to you. If you’re constantly telling yourself,
“I’m out of shape, I’ll never be fit.”
“I can’t afford it, I probably will never be able to.”
“I’ll never find a person to date and love me.”
“I’m not smart enough.”
We place limitations in our minds. Let’s look at the narrative for what happy thoughts can and should look like.
“I’m grateful for what I have currently in my life.”
“I am open to finding love in my life.”
“How can I afford what I am after.”
“I am confident in my own skin. The body I have is mine!”
This takes practice, but it can be done.
2.) Affirmations
Affirmation. The support and encouragement word. An affirmation is affirming something you want to happen. Use affirmations when you truly believe in them. Watch your verbage. Be open to possibility. State your current energy, then use the word “but” to determine what state you’re trying to get to. This can be anything from getting in shape, to making more money, to attracting the right partner in your life.
I have found using affirmations when I am alone in my room or in the car very beneficial. Affirmations create opportunity. People that actually use affirmations know they work. They affirm themselves and take action. We create the future we want, and the energy we want to give off.
3.) Use a gratitude journal
I journal everyday. It’s pretty interesting to see how your thoughts change over time and develop into your current state. Give thanks to what you currently have in this present moment.
“As humans we tend to dwell on the things we don’t have, but forget to give thanks for what we currently have.”
If we are always in a state of lack, everything in your life will never be enough. Journal about your family, your job, career, relationships in your life, your health, etc. It will make you appreciate what you have at the current moment.
4.) Get rid of the negativity
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized there’s no room in my life for negativity, and you should realize the same. Your partner should lift you up, not bring you down. Your friends should support you, not tear you down. The people that are around you the most— should be helping you grow.
Having negativity in your outer world, will affect the conversation that is occurring inside your mind. That’s why it’s extremely important to surround yourself with positive, uplifting, and like-minded people.
5.) Smile—even if you don’t feel like it
Ron Gutman gave a TED Talk on the power of smiling. It was titled “The Hidden Power of Smiling.” Ron talks about the power of smiling and how important it is throughout our lives, even when it comes to longevity! It’s the act of smiling and moving the muscles in our faces that actually make us feel better. Think about the times when you’re around people who make you laugh and smile. You probably feel great—right?
Plus—smiling definitely makes you look better and more attractive than the person who is not. As the saying goes,
“Keep smiling, it makes people wonder what you’re up to.”
Final thoughts
We aren’t going to wake up every day and be happy. It’s a life long journey of continuous progress. I’m a big believer in attitude, and how attitude can make or break us. What we do in life, who we become, who we attract, etc.
Every day is a blessing and a new opportunity to work on your happiness. Make it count.