The Power of Positivity: Choosing to See the Bright Side

The world is in a state, to say the least. It’s full of anxiety and fear. It feels chaotic and overwhelming. As soon as we seem to have a grip on things, things change again. For some, it feels…well…a little hopeless. But there’s a group of us holding strong in hope – who can see peace amidst the storm. There is one thing these people have in common, and that’s the ability to choose positivity when they can easily choose negativity. But how can you choose to see the bright side? How can you be so positive when the world feels so negative? We’re so glad you asked…

Positivity is a Choice

Bad things happen almost all the time. True these “bad things” vary by relativity and degree, but they are inherently “bad”. Many people believe that they themselves are either positive (optimists) or negative (pessimists). This self-categorizing thought can be based upon a person’s experiences, upbringing, and relationships, etc. And more often than not, once a person decides which category they fall into, they tend to stay there.

But what if we could all choose to be positive? What if each of us can face a bad situation but be diligent in finding the good that surrounds us? It’s the concept of realizing that things are going to happen how they happen. And removing the idea that things happen to us. It’s a way to stop pointing fingers and assigning blame. It’s up to you on how you want to feel about it – something that no one can take away from you.

Finding the Positives

Sure, it’s easier to say you’re going to be positive than to actually be positive. As we said before, bad things are bad on a relativity scale to our own experiences. When times are really bad, it can feel impossible to find the positives.

These are the times we need to push ourselves to get out of the comfort of the negative feeling. We know it can feel weirdly good to sit and stew with the negativity. And while this can be a small part of your process, it can feel even better to dig a little deeper and think about the good (even if that good seems like lightyears away).

When you start to practice finding the good, the process gets easier. Start with the smaller negatives and build from there if this seems challenging. Remember, all experiences good and bad are learning experiences. At the least, the positive can be that you learned a lesson that will help you in the future. But when you keep digging, you’ll find there is more to be grateful for.

Remind and Reinforce

Think about the people in your life (or your social media life). Have you ever noticed certain friends and acquaintances who are generally happy and positive for the most part? What about the ones who are seemingly never happy? Who always have something or someone to complain about? How differently do you feel about both types of people? Now, which type of energy do you want to be putting into the world?

We think that the best way to promote positivity is by reinforcing it in your own life. Again, the more you practice, the better at something you will become.  Honestly, just the simple act of being kinder, both to yourself and others, is the best way to grow in positivity. Compliment others. Tell your loved ones how much you appreciate and love them. Be there for others in times of need and struggle.

Other Things You Can Do

Here are a few other things you can do to help create more positivity in your life:

• Avoid negative people
• Treat yourself with kindness
• Also, show that kindness to others
• Look for silver linings/things to be grateful for
• Focus on facts (evaluate the validity of a negative situation)
• Get moving (the link between exercise and mood is strong!)

Positivity and Health with CPA

Our mental state – whether negative or positive – has a direct impact on our health. Studies have shown that a negative mindset can predict mental health issues and negatively impact our lifespan. And while staying positive does make us happier, the mindset can also help keep us healthy. Remember, our wellness is a cycle. The stronger the momentum in your cycle of wellness, the easier it is to continue with. Having the flexibility and confidence to not let one “mistake” derail their positive direction only adds to this optimal health. Reversing the flow of a negative cycle of wellness is a difficult task, but it isn’t impossible.

And it’s definitely easier when you have someone walking the path with you. If you feel you are struggling, know you aren’t alone, and we want to join you on your journey! Cristina Panaccione and Associates has one location in the South Hills and one office in Robinson Township. We are currently accepting a limited number of new patients, so check out our videos to learn more about how we can help you find the positives and beauty life has to offer us.

* This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please contact a medical professional for advice.

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Imagine you are on a hike. It is warm and sunny at 70 degrees. You have your water bottle in hand, your sunglasses secured on your face, and your shoes tied. You and your friend have planned this trip together for so long and finally, it’s here. As you walk, you begin thinking about that vague text message you received and begin to question its meaning. Suddenly, you are no longer having fun; you are fixated on getting back to your phone. As your chest tightens, you go through the motions of the hike, not fully taking in the wilderness. Conversation falls flat because the tunnel vision has set in. What once was an afternoon designated to a carefree outdoor experience is now rushed. Moments like this happen more than you would like to admit. Life feels like a string of commitments that feel overwhelming to handle. You try your best in this uphill battle.

If this sounds familiar, we can work together at your pace and comfort level through a person-centered approach. I find this works best individually with clients over years old. Together, we will use creative, strength-based techniques to explore solutions. I have spent over 5 years in the counseling field. During this time, I have worked in the following settings: suboxone clinic, children and youth services, residential adolescent treatment, registered adolescent sex-offenders treatment, West Virginia University college counseling, drug/alcohol treatment, and mental health counseling. In addition to these experiences, I made it a priority to specialize in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) through an EMDRIA approved trainer. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Transactional Analysis (TA), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Informed Energy Focused Therapy (EFT) (i.e. tapping), and Reality Therapy are amongst the other treatments I can provide. You are your greatest investment and I want to help you work towards your authentic self.