8 simple actions for being the most positive person you know

Less is often more – but not when talking about positivity.

When you feel better, you do better. It’s not voodoo (we think); it’s human nature. Research shows people with a more positive outlook on life enjoy more positive experiences. Here are eight ways to pump up the positivity – and they are all things you can start doing today.

8 ways to start being more positive today

1. Accept rejection as a part of life.

Failure is an inevitable part of life, but it’s not the end of the world. Setbacks occur once in a while, and you’ll move on and learn from them.

2. Throw away feelings of resentment.

Avoid blaming other people for your lot in life. Accept responsibility for your actions and take control of your choices.

3. Surround yourself with positive people.

You eventually become who you hang with. Ditch people who bring you down and spend time with people who lift you higher. As they say, tell us who your friends are and we’ll tell you who you are.

4. Count out ten things and say thanks.

Expressing gratitude has been known to instantly put us in a state of positivity. When you feel your positivity starting to wane, stop what you’re doing and count out ten things you’re extremely grateful for (your health, your hobbies, a specific chance you were granted in life). Just make sure they come from the heart.

5. Do NOT wait to exhale.

Take control. It starts with breathing. Focus on your breath and learn to control your rhythm. This is a common meditation practice and has been known to boost positivity.

6. Ask the doc what’s up.

Our mood problems can sometimes be associated to underlying health issues. If the body is out of tune, the mind will be out of tune.

7. Say something nice to one person every day.

Just make sure your comments are genuine and come from the heart. Studies show offering words of kindness can almost instantly increase our moods (’tis better to give than to receive, my dear) – but wait, there’s more! A simple act of generosity can also trigger a human mechanism called a reciprocal concession, which means they’ll feel more inclined to return the kindness.

8. Channel enthusiasm.

Again, make sure your enthusiasm is genuine. And if you can’t force it? Review steps 1 through 7 – and try, try again.

That’s a plus

Remember: Positive thinking yields positive results. Each day is a new chance to improve your attitude and change your life for good (literally).