We’ve all been there, when days drag by like sleepy smoke, and there you are, off-color, waging a war of wills with a giant cocoa cake. “Chocolate gets me like no one else!”, you mumble. Or maybe you’ve gone all out, furiously coaching your pet parrot to scream insults. Whatever it is, you’re sad.
But sadness never originates outside; it’s born from within. You can train your mind to embrace the sunny side of life and keep those pesky thoughts at bay. Easier said than done, but perfectly doable with positive psychology by your side. Let’s see how you can use its powers to transform how you think and behave.
We’ve All Been There
The mind is the chief architect designing dreams, birthing ideas, and painting emotions. But the moment its focus wanders, you’re left feeling like a mere spectator of your life, struggling to play your part.
You’ve probably been there when staring at a blank page of what should be a college paper, your thoughts scattering, and your anxious fingers pleading ukwritings essays professionals to write a flawless paper for you. These pals are great for those unmotivated moments. They write so well to impress even that meanest professor with an exact part in his hair! But let’s face it; it’s best to face up to responsibilities yourself.
To be able to do so, you should understand how your mind functions and what you could do to maximize its powers.
Positivity in Moderation
Remember Oscar Wilde’s witty phrase, “everything in moderation, including moderation”? Our shock-oriented society seems to have forgotten this, pushing extremes in everything, from herculean work ethic to the positive mindset craze. It seems like we’re competing to see who can be the happiest, and the competition never really stops.
That’s because chasing a constant stream of joy is counterproductive; the more you seek, the farther it seems to go. Perhaps it’s time to stand back and think about an alternative way- one that accepts the ups and downs of life’s complex emotional landscape. Maybe that’s why our age of instant gratification, where sugar-filled food, a hilarious Netflix show, or whatever else we desire is always just a tap away, does not literally translate into a happy life, with depression rates rising everywhere.
We could turn another way and listen to psychologists who urge us to rethink positive thinking and restore balance. They’re not a group of whiners who want us miserable. They just start from a simple and evident premise that the path to a happy life is paved with tears and blows just as much as smiles and flowers. To lead a fulfilling life, we must experience a wide range of emotions. This means facing “negative” emotions like regret and fear head-on, allowing them to pass without judgment or shame, and always being certain that the sweet scent of some rose will come just in time to restore our delight.
The goal is to find happiness in the balance and constant interplay rather than obsessively prioritize one feeling over another.
Mind Training: Hands-On Tips
Now that you know how crucial it is to strike a balance between optimism and acceptance, it’s time to look at some doable strategies for maintaining positive psychology at college. These practical methods can help you build resilience and maintain mental agility:
- Regular mindfulness practice (including breathwork and meditation) can help you feel anchored to the present, manage your emotions better, and feel less stressed.
- Your general well-being will skyrocket when you emphasize the good parts of your life and put them in words. This can boost your general well-being and self-acceptance.
- You’ll feel accomplished and more motivated if you set realistic milestones. Try to organize your academic and personal objectives into smaller, doable chunks.
- Maintain solid social ties with friends and family. Having a solid support system will help you remain emotionally resilient when things go tough.
- It’s true that laughter is the best medicine. Spend time with friends who make you smile.
- Establish a self-care schedule that consists of things you actually like doing. Make time for your favorite pastimes, whether they include reading, hiking, or painting.
And don’t be afraid to contact a therapist or counselor for assistance if you’re experiencing ongoing mental health issues. They can provide insightful advice on what to do next.
Remember, resilience is the capacity to overcome difficulties. Develop this talent by adjusting to obstacles and keeping a good attitude despite hardships. Be nice and understanding to yourself just as you would be to a friend. Self-compassion can help you handle tough emotions more gently.