Holistic healing

Interview: Sarah Highfield on the power of positivity

Our holistic health columnist explains why your mindset really is so important

This month, I would like to remind you of something you already know (but sometimes forget)… and that’s that being positive is a choice (most of the time). When life challenges you and you are confronted with what feels like roadblocks on the journey that is your very existence, it’s easy to walk around with a dark cloud over your head and lose hope, give in to, or spiral into negativity.

We all have moments and people that test us, and how you react to them can make all the difference between a bad moment, a bad week, a bad month or even a bad year. Here are my top pointers on how to turn that around…

1. Instead of asking “why me?” ask “what now?”

Being aware of your mindset, thoughts and beliefs, and learning how to steer them is key to shaping your habits and perception of the world. You can feel like a perpetual victim when confronted by circumstances or people that hinder you, but, if you can manage not to dwell on the negativity of the situation, and instead look for solutions and resolutions, then you’ve already won half the battle.

2. Remember a negative mind will never give you a positive life

We often only see what we are looking for: a negative mindset will look for faults in everything, while a positive one will find opportunities. A common example many people can relate to is when dealing with someone you don’t like or who annoys you. Chances are, when interacting with them, you are largely focused on all their irritating traits, which only leaves you overthinking and feeling increasingly tense. Instead, next time you interact with them, try to focus on the parts of them which are sincere and well-meaning, and recognise that their behaviours also come from somewhere (just as yours do), and maybe there are areas in their lives that are not going their way.

And, if you can’t do that, why not simply just let them be and not allow their actions or negative energy to ruin your positive energy. Take a moment to decide if are they worth you stressing out over and whether they are more important than your own peace of mind.

3. Try practical positivity

While I don’t advocate toxic positivity, I am encouraging you to understand that, with exceptions, being positive is a choice that you have. The world is a brighter place when you focus on the good times, occasions, news, achievements and people in your life. If you need a helping hand, well-known strategies for keeping positive include:

Keeping a gratitude journal
Daily meditation (even a few minutes a day will make a difference)
Walks in nature
Being present in the moment
Embracing humour
Prioritising self-care
Spending time with positive people
Maintaining good relationships with people you care about

Every experience you have is an opportunity for you to evolve for the better, and if you can keep this in mind when things don’t go your way, you will feel more positive and motivated in those challenging moments.