I don’t think I am alone when I say that I am my own worst critic. Why do we give ourselves such a hard time? Social Media has just compounded this further leaving us all with self-doubt and our heads full of negative talk.
I know that I need to take control of my thought process in order to have a truly happy life. I need to stop these thoughts and take control of my own happiness and not just leave things to develop.
Here are some of the things I am doing to stop the negative talk inside my head:
Keep A Gratitude Journal
When I am in a situation that makes me prone to thinking negatively I often find it difficult to see the goodness in my life; the negative situation takes over and becomes all-consuming. I find my writing down positives in my life, things I am grateful for really helps me see through the negatives.
I keep my journal, a simple notebook by the side of my bed and each night I write down three positives. these may be from the day or life in general. I also use the journal as a brain dump for things I have currently have on my mind or ideas for my blog or adventures I want to go on. Jotting down my thoughts each day helps me remain mindful of the little things that are good about my week, but may be easily forgotten otherwise.
Surround Yourself With Positive Influences
The saying that misery loves company is pretty accurate. Look around you and see which friends bring positive things into your life and which people tend to drain you and bring your mood down. It isn’t selfish to put yourself first and distance yourself from people who have a negative impact on your life. It is said we are the combination of the five people we spend the most time with, so pick wisely who you spend your time with.
Do Something Out Of Your Comfort Zone
Helping others can do wonders for your mindset and our own image of ourselves. Take a step back and do something out of your comfort zone, do something that scares you but at the same time brings you joy. It is amazing what doing something different can have on your mindset.
Perfection Is Overrated
Regardless of what you may think nobody is perfect. Social media has a lot of things to answer for. Far too often we see people’s highlight real on social media and then compare it to the things we want to change in life. If it is right for you, take a break from social media. Striving for excellence is understandable, but setting the bar too high will only lead to disappointment.
Read Positive Quotes
Reading a positive quote when you are struggling to lift your mood can have a huge effect especially if they become mantras. Over on my lifestyle blog, I have a 28 day challenge packed full of motivational quotes which you may find helpful.
Good Food Choices
What we eat or don’t eat can have a role in negative thoughts and emotions. Excess processed foods, sugar and high-fat foods can make us feel sluggish as our body tries to digest what we have eaten. Soaring blood sugars because of a high sugar diet followed by a big dip in sugar levels can also have a detrimental effect. By consciously looking at what we eat and ensuring our bodies are nourished can have a positive effect on our moods. This doesn’t mean you should deprive yourself of the odd treat. Moderation is key.
Get Some Sunshine
During the winter months, many people suffer from something called Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. By ensuring you get outside each day for at least 30 minutes can ensure you get enough vitamin D. Supplements are available to purchase without a prescription and can make a huge difference.
Following these tips will help you kick those negative thoughts to the curb whenever they appear. It does take you making an effort to help shift negative thoughts but it is so worthwhile putting the time into changing your mindset.
However, if you feel it would help making an appointment with your GP and discussing how you are feeling can also help. Don’t ever think you are in this alone, there are people out there who can help point you in the right direction to help your current situation. But the main thing to remember is you are not a burden to others by asking for help.
Do you have any ways to rid yourself of negative thoughts when they strike?
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