Negative thoughts have a tendency to take over our brain. If we let them.
Don’t let negative thoughts consume your mind.
The bad news is that negative thoughts far outnumber the positive thoughts. Some say up to 95% of our thoughts are negative.
The good news is that you don’t have to listen to these inner Debbie Downers. You can stop, reverse, and reduce those negative thoughts. You can cleanse your mind with these 10 simple detox methods.
As Sir Mix-a-lot would say– let’s kick those nasty thoughts.
Write down your thoughts and feelings.
If you find negativity dominating your thoughts, try writing them down. Get them out of your head as soon as you can.
Count your blessings.
Make a list of all the positive things in your life. Keep this gratitude list handy when you need a reminder that life isn’t all bad.
Get moving.
Going for a walk or exercising will release endorphins that battle negative or depressive thoughts. You aren’t required to go running to get this natural high. Walking, swimming, Zumba, and yoga are all physical activities that trigger the release of endorphins.
Question your thoughts.
When you notice negativity creeping in, ask the following questions: Is it true? Can you absolutely know that it’s true?
Don’t judge others.
Many of our negative thoughts can be linked to our perception of others and how they may not live up to our expectations. Practice seeing the situation from their point of view. Realize that their lives are different than ours and that your beliefs may not be the same as their beliefs.
Seek out positive people.
Surround yourself with people who you want to be like: happy, positive, and enjoyable. Their optimism will rub off on you.
Stay busy doing activities you love.
Doing things you enjoy will keep you in a positive state. Still have to do things you don’t like? Do as much as you can to find the joy in whatever you have to do. Blast disco dance music while you wash dishes or watch “Mad Men” while folding laundry.
Doing things you love can help battle negative thoughts.
Be patient with yourself.
We’ve gotten so used to our negative thoughts that we don’t even realize they’re happening. Don’t get frustrated as you begin to change your thoughts and realize how much your thoughts have been running your life. Give yourself time to adjust and just keep moving forward.
Laugh. Laugh again.
Don’t take life so seriously. Find a way to laugh every day. Here is a corny joke: “What do you call a bear without teeth? A gummy bear.” Tell your friends, children, neighbors, and dentist. We can all use more laughter in our lives.
Help others.
Giving back allows you to focus on someone other than yourself. It occupies your thoughts and prevents them from reverting to negativity. You can volunteer at your local food bank, through national organizations, or even on your military installation. The Navy-Marine Relief Society is a volunteer-centered organization that will train you. No experience required.
Daily exercise is good for your mind and body.
Remember: You are not your negative thoughts.
You can choose to cleanse your mind of those negative thoughts at any time. Today is the day you can begin to ditch those mental naysayers and start anew with positive thoughts.
How do you keep negative thoughts away?
