How to Be a More Positive Person: 10 Tips That Work

Feeling stuck in a rut of negativity and wondering how to be a more positive person? You're not alone. I spent the majority of my young adult life as a "negative person." Or at least that's what I thought it was back then, and with my fixed mindset I was convinced there was nothing I could do about it. Luckily for me, my sophomore year in college, I serendipitously discovered a book called "How To Win Friends and Influence People" By Dale Carnegie that opened my eyes to a different way of looking at myself and others. I realized that my interaction with the world wasn't some predetermined path, but instead my attitude and the principles I chose to follow when interacting with others was the key to becoming popular and gaining allies.

I went from sitting alone at lunch and getting rejected from every fraternity during rush week, to the following year becoming pledge president and one of the most popular members of my fraternity.

Along with my newfound social status came a sense of confidence I'd never experienced, and a positive outlook on life was simultaneously emerging. I realized then that it was the positive attitude that the techniques from Dale Carnegie's book would work that gave me the confidence to effectively use them. And the more I did, and the better the results I got, allowed me to have the confidence to put the practices into play. The more techniques I used, and the more results I got, the more positive outlook I developed.

Positive thinking is the number one way to transform your life because everything in it revolves around your mindset. Negative self talk will lead to bad habits and poor outcomes in the 5 main areas of life. This becomes a life where "hoping," and relying on "willpower" become the standard.

But a positive outlook on life will act as your never ending fuel to continually propel your life forward in all aspects of life. Whether it be the success habits you develop related to your career, relationships, physical health, etc.

In this blog, you'll discover 10 practical tips that can help you become a more positive person. Let’s dive into how you can start making a change today.

Upgrades You'll Earn From This Blog:

1. Improved mental and physical health

2. Tips to become a positive person

3. Enhanced relationships with positive people

4. Greater resilience against negative emotions

How to be a More Positive Person: 10 Tips

1. Start Your Day with Positive Affirmations

Kickstart your morning with a burst of positivity. Positive affirmations can shape the tone for the rest of your day, steering you towards a more positive mindset.

Positive affirmations are very effective and a study published in the journal Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience states that self-affirmation activates the brain’s reward centers, making one receptive to positive information.

Actionable Tips:

• Write down three positive affirmations tailored to your goals.

• Say them out loud each morning to reinforce your mindset.

• Place sticky notes with affirmations on your mirror or desk.

2. Hang Out with People Who Lift You Up

You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with- Jim Rohn.

The company you keep has a significant impact on your outlook. Therefore, surrounding yourself with positive, like-minded individuals can uplift and inspire you. Once you start ditching toxic relationships, you will see that you glow differently.

This idea has been reinforced by Dr. Nicholas Christakis, an American sociologist and physician. In his study, he states that people's happiness depends on other people's happiness and spreads through social networks, up to three degrees of separation.

The paper also states that if a friend of yours lives within a distance of 1.6 km and becomes happy, that increases the probability of your joy by 25%! Isn't that shocking?

Actionable Tips:

• Join clubs or groups that share your interests and values.

• Seek out mentors who embody the positivity and success you aspire to.

• Limit time with negative influences and set boundaries when necessary.

3. Keep a Gratitude Journal

Imagine gratitude as a pair of glasses that shifts your perspective. When you wear these gratitude glasses, they don’t magically change your circumstances, but they do alter how you perceive them. Suddenly, you notice the small joys—the sun peeking through the clouds, a warm cup of coffee, or a heartfelt conversation with a friend.

Gratitude redirects your focus from what you lack to what you have in abundance, fostering a positive outlook. It also helps you appreciate what you have and reduces anxiety.

Studies show that regular gratitude practice can increase happiness and reduce depression.

Another study published in the journal Psychotherapy Research found that participants who wrote gratitude letters reported significantly better mental health four weeks and 12 weeks after their writing exercise ended.

Actionable Tips:

• Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you're grateful for each day.

• Express your gratitude to others to spread positivity.

• Reflect on positive experiences before bed to end your day on a high note.

4. Ditch Negative Thoughts

Cognitive restructuring is a technique that helps you view negative situations in a more positive light, reducing stress and increasing resilience.

This technique is a cornerstone of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and is used by psychologists worldwide.

According to research published in Wiley Online Library, cognitive restructuring can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

You can practice cognitive restructuring at home by recognizing your negative thoughts and questioning their plausibility.

Stand in front of a mirror and ask yourself what you are worried about. What do you think will happen? Doing this will make you realize that you are wasting time on things that are unlikely to happen.

Actionable Tips:

• Identify a negative thought and challenge its validity.

• Replace it with a more positive, constructive thought.

• Practice this regularly to replace your bad habit of negative thinking with positive thinking.

Explore our CBRP Mental Framework to help overcome anxiety and break negative thought patterns.

5. Get Moving and Feel the Positivity Boost

To channel your inner positivity, you should exercise regularly.

Exercise not only improves your physical health but also releases endorphins, which naturally boost your mood and energy levels.

Regular physical activity is also linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, according to Mayo Clinic reports.

By dedicating 10-20 minutes of your day to exercising, you can offer tremendous benefits to your mind, body, and soul and win at life!

Actionable Tips:

• Choose an activity you enjoy, whether it's dancing, hiking, or yoga.

• Schedule regular exercise sessions, even if it’s just a 10-minute walk.

• Mix up your routine to keep things interesting and fun.

6. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness and meditation are powerful ways to stay present, reduce stress, and improve overall mental health. Regular practice can rewire your brain to be more resilient to stress. Just like lifting weights strengthens your muscles, mindfulness strengthens your mind. It’s all about being present—fully aware of the here and now. You can read more on how mental toughness training can help you become mentally stronger.

When you practice mindfulness, you’re not lost in the past or fretting about the future. Instead, you’re savoring the taste of that morning coffee, feeling the sun on your skin, or listening intently to a friend’s story.

This is supported by a review article published in the JAMA Internal Medicine Journal that found that mindfulness meditation programs can improve anxiety, depression, and pain. Hence, it’s like a mental workout that strengthens your emotional resilience.

Actionable Tips:

• Set aside 10 minutes each day for meditation.

• Use guided meditation apps like Headspace or Calm.

• Incorporate mindfulness into daily activities, like eating or walking.

Read More: How to clear your Mind for Meditation?

7. Set Goals You Can Actually Achieve

Another way to stay positive is to set goals that can actually be achieved.

Realistic goals give you direction and a sense of accomplishment, which boosts positivity and motivation. Setting and achieving goals can also improve self-esteem and life satisfaction.

You should also write down your goals and paste them on your room’s wall so that they serve as reminders.

In this way, you are more likely to achieve your goals, according to research conducted by Dr. Gail Matthews.

Actionable Tips:

• Break down big goals into smaller, manageable steps.

• Use SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to set your goals.

• Celebrate small victories to maintain motivation and momentum.

8. Limit Exposure to Negativity

Constant exposure to negative news and environments can drain your positivity. However, by managing your environment and media consumption, you can maintain a positive mindset.

A poll by the American Psychological Association found that consuming negative news can increase stress levels and make one anxious.

Therefore, it is recommended that people stay away from negative news as much as possible.

Actionable Tips:

• Set daily time limits for news and social media consumption.

• Follow positive and inspiring accounts on social media.

• Create a calm and uplifting home environment with music, plants, and decor that make you happy.

9. Engage in Acts of Kindness

Another easy tip that can help you become a positive person is to be helpful and kind to others.

Helping others not only makes a positive impact on them but also boosts your happiness and positivity. Acts of kindness can also create a sense of connection and purpose.

Research from the University of British Columbia found that performing acts of kindness can decrease loneliness and improve social connections. It also has positive effects on one’s mental health.

Actionable Tips:

• Volunteer at a local charity or community event.

• Perform random acts of kindness, like paying for someone's coffee.

• Make it a habit to do one kind of thing for someone each day.

10. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

A balanced diet, adequate sleep, and proper hydration contribute to overall well-being and positivity.

As Buddha once said, “To keep the body in good health is a duty…otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear..”

A study published in the BMJ journal also verified this, stating that following a healthy diet like the Mediterranean diet can improve one’s mental health.

Actionable Tips:

• Eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods to fuel your body and mind.

• Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

Read More: How to get Back on Track with Diet

What are 5 Positive Attitudes?

1. Gratitude: Embracing gratitude involves recognising and appreciating the good things in life, no matter how small. It shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have, cultivating a sense of abundance and positivity.

2. Optimism: Optimism is the expectation that good things will happen in the future. It's about focusing on possibilities and opportunities rather than obstacles and failures. This attitude can enhance resilience and improve overall well-being.

3. Resilience: Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges. It involves maintaining a positive outlook despite difficulties and believing in your capacity to overcome obstacles.

4. Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness means being present in the moment and fully engaging with whatever you're doing. It helps reduce stress, improve focus, and increase emotional regulation, contributing to a more positive mindset.

5. Self-Compassion: Self-compassion means treating yourself with kindness and understanding during times of failure or difficulty. It's about accepting your imperfections and recognising that everyone makes mistakes, which fosters a healthier and more positive self-image.

How to Think Positive?

Thinking positively isn't about ignoring reality or problems; it's about approaching life's challenges with a mindset that looks for solutions and opportunities. Here are some strategies to cultivate positive thinking:

1. Reframe Negative Thoughts: Challenge and change negative thought patterns. Instead of thinking, "I'll never succeed," try, "This is a challenge I can learn from."

2. Practice Gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you're thankful for each day. This practice helps shift focus from what's wrong to what's right.

3. Surround Yourself with Positive People: Spend time with people who uplift and inspire you. Their positive attitudes can be contagious and help you maintain a positive outlook.

4. Engage in Positive Self-Talk: Replace self-criticism with affirmations. Encourage yourself as you would a friend facing a tough situation.

5. Visualise Success: Imagine yourself achieving your goals and experiencing positive outcomes. Visualization can boost motivation and confidence.

You also read our article on How to Change the Way You Think

Why Am I Always Negative?

Understanding why you might feel consistently negative is the first step towards change. Common reasons include:

1. Habitual Thinking Patterns: Negative thinking can become a habit over time. If you consistently focus on what's wrong, it becomes a default mode of thinking.

2. Past Experiences: Traumatic or difficult past experiences can shape your worldview and lead to a negative outlook.

3. Environment: Being surrounded by negative people or stressful environments can influence your mindset.

4. Lack of Self-Compassion: Being overly critical of yourself can perpetuate negative thinking.

5. Biological Factors: Negativity can sometimes be linked to biological factors like genetics or chemical imbalances in the brain.

Read More: How to Stop Being Negative

10 Benefits of Positive Thinking

1. Improved Mental Health: Positive thinking can reduce the risk of depression and anxiety by promoting a more optimistic outlook.

2. Better Physical Health: Positive thinkers often experience lower levels of stress and better overall health, including a stronger immune system.

3. Increased Longevity: Studies show that positive people tend to live longer, healthier lives.

4. Greater Resilience: Positive thinking helps you bounce back more easily from setbacks and challenges.

5. Enhanced Relationships: Positive people tend to have better relationships because they attract others with their optimistic and supportive demeanour.

6. Higher Productivity: A positive mindset can boost motivation and productivity, helping you achieve your goals more effectively.

7. Improved Problem-Solving Skills: Positive thinkers approach problems with a solutions-oriented mindset, making them better problem solvers.

8. Greater Success: Optimism and positivity can lead to higher levels of success in both personal and professional life.

9. Reduced Stress: Positive thinking helps manage stress more effectively, leading to a more relaxed and balanced life.

10. Enhanced Creativity: A positive outlook can foster creativity and innovation by encouraging open-mindedness and flexibility.

Check our blog on Positive Thinking Exercises

3 Great Positive Thinking Techniques

1. Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to reinforce a positive mindset. Start your day by repeating statements like "I am capable," "I am worthy," or "I attract good things into my life."

2. Visualization: Visualize your success and desired outcomes. Spend a few minutes each day picturing yourself achieving your goals and living your ideal life.

3. Mindfulness Meditation: Practice mindfulness meditation to stay present and focused. This technique helps you observe your thoughts without judgment, allowing you to shift negative patterns to positive ones.

Momentum Boosting Methods to Be a Positive Person

To boost momentum in adopting positive thinking habits, consider the following strategies:

1. Make It Obvious: Surround yourself with positive cues. Place sticky notes with affirmations on your mirror or computer, or set reminders on your phone to practice gratitude.

2. Make It Easy: Start with small, manageable steps. For example, write down one thing you're grateful for each day instead of aiming for a lengthy gratitude journal.

3. Make It Fun/Rewarding: Combine positive thinking exercises with enjoyable activities. Listen to your favourite music while writing in your gratitude journal, or reward yourself with a treat after completing a meditation session.

4. Make It Automatic: Use technology to automate your positive thinking habits. Set up apps that send you daily affirmations or reminders to practice mindfulness.

By incorporating these momentum-boosting methods, you can make the practice of positive thinking more engaging and sustainable, ultimately transforming your mindset and enhancing your overall well-being. What are you waiting for? Start Taking Action now!

Conclusion: How to be a more positive person

If I can go from a lonely, negative college student to building a $320M exit, I promise you that your mindset is not fixed. You aren't "stuck" being a negative person—you’re just out of practice.

Don't try to master all 10 tips today. Just pick one. Whether it’s starting a gratitude journal or muting the negative news, make one choice that protects your energy. Once you get that first win, the momentum takes over.

Positive thinking is a skill that can be developed over time, leading to a happier and more fulfilling life. Stay patient, stay persistent, and watch yourself become the best version of yourself!

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FAQs - How to be a Positive Person

1. How do I train myself to be positive?

Focus on gratitude by keeping a daily journal, practice mindfulness through meditation or deep breathing exercises, and consciously reframe negative thoughts into positive ones by finding the silver lining in challenging situations.

2. How can I be more positive to people?

Show genuine interest in others by actively listening and asking thoughtful questions, use positive language to communicate appreciation and support, and regularly offer compliments and encouragement to uplift those around you.

3. How to stop negative thinking?

Challenge negative thoughts by examining the evidence and exploring alternative perspectives, practice mindfulness to stay present and avoid dwelling on negative past experiences, and engage in activities that boost your mood, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.

4. How can I attract positive thoughts?

Surround yourself with positive influences like supportive friends, uplifting books, or motivational content, practice gratitude by regularly acknowledging the good things in your life, and set clear, positive intentions each day to guide your focus and actions towards positivity.

5. How to Have a Positive Mindset?

Focus on gratitude daily, reframe negative thoughts as lessons, surround yourself with uplifting people, limit negativity consumption, celebrate small wins, and practice self-compassion — progress over perfection, always.