Many people who experience struggle and challenges think it’s impossible to be positive because life can be tough. However there are ways even during the most difficult of times. Like many things in life, learning how to be positive throughout it all is a skill that needs to be developed. Being positive is simply a way of thinking and a mind-set. Regardless of your current state of mind, you can alter it to one of positivity.

Your mind is incredibly powerful and influential. It is our thoughts that determine our quality of life. We get what we expect, whether we want it or not. So if you expect the worst all of the time, you won’t be disappointed. As my father would say, “It works for you by not working,” which makes perfect sense when you realize the power your thoughts hold.

When your thinking is positive you can change your life accordingly. The concept of changing your life is as simple as changing your mind. Replace negative thoughts with positive ones, like thoughts of lack for appreciation and misery with happiness. While there may be external factors that happen beyond your control, your perception of them will affect how you handle and overcome it.

Follow these tips for how to be & stay positive:

Focus on the big picture – Determine what you want to do with your life. Think about what you want to be and what you want to achieve. Make a plan to accomplish those goals then take action. Regardless of how big or small your next step is, keep moving and focus on your overall goal. When you’re focused on something greater, difficulties that come up seem minute in the grand scheme of things.

Realize that you deserve it – Don’t limit yourself, in life you can have whatever you’d like. Why can’t you have it all? You deserve it. Understand that it is possible, instead of convincing yourself that it’s not. Examine your self-talk, what you tell yourself. If you are your own worst enemy use affirmations to alter your subconscious and be more positive.

Shift your perspective – Due to the influence of the society that we live in, our minds become conditioned to focus on the negative and fault find. But we do have a choice when it comes to our viewpoint and place attention on the positive. Avoid comparing yourself to others instead allow them to inspire you. Even someone who embodies a trait you dislike can inspire you to work against it. Stop criticizing others and situations instead look for the good and express gratitude.

Attitude of gratitude – Even when everything seems to be falling apart there is still something to be appreciative of. It’s helpful to jot down the things you are grateful for. They can be big or small things, like the traffic light turning green as you pulled up, on your way to work. Relive the pleasure as you review these items. This will help you be positive.

Learn the lesson – There is something to be learned from every situation, especially the disastrous ones. Accept that things happen for a reason, although you may not know why just yet, consider it a learning experience. Look for the silver lining and appreciate your newfound level of knowledge as it will help you from getting caught in the same trap again. Some lessons will come at a higher expense than others however the cost knowing how to approach or prevent it in the future is priceless.

Adjust gradually – Many people mistakenly believe that in order to be positive they need to be bubbly all of the time. Keeping up a cheerful façade isn’t being positive at all but merely acting. Put conscious effort into feeling good and being positive, soon you will then with gradual progress it will come naturally. Understand that as it will take some time to implement these tips it will also take time for your life to change. So don’t think that it doesn’t work because it does happen, just not overnight, there is a lag in the physical aspect.

Get inspired! – Continue to read helpful and inspirational articles and join a positive community. Reading articles and watching these kinds of videos will fuel your motivation and help you reach your goals. Consider joining a community of like-minded individuals. By interacting with others on the same journey you’ll realize that there are ways to triumph over rough patches and get back to status quo and beyond. Leading Edge Advocate can provide you with the support and informational resources to carry on and regain focus.

Relax & enjoy – Sometimes we just need a break. This doesn’t mean we lose focus, just a brief intermission to enjoy life. Relax every once in a while, go have some fun, catch a movie or play some games. Taking things too serious for too long can become tedious and discouraging. Enjoying life revives you and provides a new appreciation and motivation for life.

Now that you know the basics of how to be positive, become that person. Your new, positive life awaits you!

Author's Bio: 

Lea Bullen is a personal development and conscious living advocate who is passionate about helping people change their lives.

If you’re interested in changing your quality of life, improve your well being or need some help and support on your path to personal development join the Leading Edge Advocate today, http://www.leadingedgeadvocate.com and receive your Personal Development Guide.