The Power of Positivity
Dr Susan Chan
Some people have a particular quality that can radiate positive energy and embody an inherent goodness. We may be blessed to have a certain predisposition to positivity, or sometimes not… but not all is lost. Positivity can also be learned. Like a muscle, the more positivity is activated and nurtured, the stronger it becomes. Smiling is a sign of positivity. The more we smile, the more connected we can be. We are connected with ourselves and the people around us.
One such person was Dame Deborah James, the ‘bowel babe’. As she coped with stage 4 cancer, her infectious positivity inspired so many people to face adversity with a rebellious hope. Her family, when announcing her passing, praised Deborah as an inspiration. She broke down negative barriers and taboos to change the conversation around cancer. Indeed, positivity can have a powerful, lasting legacy.
We all strive to be the best we can be. Like a guiding light, positivity gives us meaning and purpose but sometimes, life gets in the way. Relationships, work, health and money concerns can stop us from moving on. However, if we remain optimistic, we can engage in positive thinking, emotions, and behaviours (such as kindness, generosity, hope and courage). Such behaviours can be attractive and engaging.
A positive mindset can be a choice. Your mind is a potent tool. Research indicates that positivity can influence all of us, including our children, when we cope with stress, decision-making, anxiety, resilience and mental fitness to turn the tide of negativity. Of course, positivity is not a miracle cure, and we need to guard against being foolhardy or reckless.
Five tips for embodying positivity today:
Acceptance
Accept things as they are. We are limited in what we can change. Avoid the negativity that some people create.
Self-compassion
Be kind to yourself (and others) to enhance and allow your holistic well-being. This builds your self-esteem and has a positive influence on your subconscious mind.
Enhance your relationships
Positivity is infectious, not only with your family and friends but also in the workplace. Work can be stressful and challenging. A sense of resilience can increase performance, satisfaction and stamina. Surround yourself with positive people.
Practise positivity
Yoga is terrific for the body, heart and mind
Breathing exercises will allow you to relax
Meditation develops and maintains a positive state of mind
Visualisation helps to imagine the best possible outcomes
Journalling allows you to record your thoughts, emotions and feelings, and to reflect and get your creative juices flowing
Make simple changes
Try to adopt steps for healthy lifestyle choices. Consider working on your diet to boost energy levels and weight control. Try to exercise, with friends or family or by yourself, to boost your mood and energy levels. Go for a walk, take in the fresh air, reconnect, and explore the wonders of nature.
Positivity can be the tiniest thing that brings fun into your day. Watch positivity radiate from the faces of old and young alike and know the difference that it can make. When you sense that things are going your way, you can judge for yourself whether positivity can improve your health and well-being. In other words, is your glass half-empty or, through adopting a positive outlook, is it half-full?
For further information, email info@susanchan.co.uk or visit www.susanchannewhorizons.com
