So far 2020 has been a whirlwind, and not a great one. A lot of us are trying to figure out how to stay positive in a world with growing difficulties.

Do you struggle with negative thoughts throughout the day? Maybe you always have a negative reaction instead of a positive one? Perhaps the lockdown due to COVID-19 has you feeling blue?

Major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. Statistics show that more than 17 million people over the age of 18 have suffered at least one major depressive episode.

Negativity can lead to depression and vice versa. There are several things you can learn to know how to stay positive both in everyday life and in tough times like we are all experiencing right now.

Keep reading to learn about nine of them.

1. Meditation and Mindfulness

Simply breathing and quieting your mind can do wonders for your brain and its positive thoughts. Taking just 15 minutes a day is all you need. Studies have shown that meditation promotes emotional health and decreases depression.

You can start slow with five minutes a day of simple breathing and some time alone in a quiet place.

There are several books, CDs, and podcasts you can check out for some guidance if you’ve never done any meditation before. All you have to do is set some time aside throughout the say and follow along. You can find teachers on Amazon or through a web search.

When you do this you’ll become more mindful of what’s going on inside you and you’ll learn things to do that can turn those negative thoughts into positive ones.

2. APPS

Using apps from your smartphone or computer can be of great help and show you how to live a positive life. Apps such as Brain.fm, Headspace, 365 Gratitude, and ThinkUp, to name a few.

Apps are simple and you can take them with you everywhere. So, when you’re in need of some positivity just pull up the one that works well for you.

3. Diet

Your diet not only affects how you feel physically but also how you feel mentally. They say you are what you eat, and when you eat clean and fresh foods you’ll feel the same in both mind and body.

Studies have shown that people who eat a diet full of vegetables, fish, and fruits are less likely to be depressed and therefore not have as many negative thoughts.

4. Look at the Bright Side

Yes, it’s a cliche’ but it really works. A lot of times we have a choice of how we react to things and trying to find the positive from a negative can be a powerful thing.

When a decision, event, or action doesn’t turn out in your favor you should pause, take a breath, and think of a way to see the bright side of the outcome.

Most of the time you will find one, you just might need to look or dig a little deeper for that outcome.

6. Take Regular Walks in Nature

Nature is therapeutic. Taking a walk or even a bike ride in nature can bring a great deal of positivity to your mindset.

Once you try taking a mindful walk in nature you’ll probably see or feel right away that it will help you stay optimistic during tough times. Bike riding through nature is also a great way to stay positive.

If you’re interested in a more chilled out excursion, simply sitting in a park or at the beach can show you how to be a more positive person. It will slow down your mind almost like a form of meditation.

The sights, the sounds of the birds, or the ocean are always calming and give you a positive mindset for a long while after.

6. Hit the Gym

Exercise is extremely important when it comes to maintaining a positive mindset. Whether it’s the gym, or a daily jog, or of course, during these COVID-119 times a home workout, you’ll feel the rush of endorphins.

Endorphins are neurochemicals that are released in your body after a good workout. They’ve shown a number of health benefits including reducing anxiety and stress, alleviating depression, boosting self-esteem, and even help with weight loss.

All of these benefits you get from endorphins being released after a workout will help you stay optimistic and be positive.

7. Music

Music makes the world go round. Music can also make your world brighter and teach you how to be positive. It can calm you when you’re uptight, stressed, or overwhelmed.

It can take you back to a happy time in your life. It can remind you of some fond memories you shared with friends and family. Music can also help you let loose and get out some frustrations. Using music is key to living a positive life.

And remember what Nietzsche said, “Without music, life would be a mistake.”

8. Dance

Dance baby, dance. Dancing is another great way to help keep a positive outlook. You don’t have to be good at it. You don’t have to do it in front of anyone. You can just dance and watch your worries fade away.

Scientific research has confirmed that dancing does make you happy. It helps reduce depression, anxiety, and stress. Dancing also helps ease head and neck pain. If you’re not too shy and feeling adventurous you can join a dance class or a swing dancing group. Line dancing is also tons of fun.

9. Daily Affirmations

Daily affirmations are ever so important to boost your confidence and help you see the world in a more positive light.

When you’re confident and feel assured of yourself you’ll have an extra glow about you that will permeate through every part of your life. In turn, you’ll start to live and think more positively.

How to Stay Positive?

We’ve gone over several different ways you can learn how to stay positive. Just keep in mind not to rush into all of these at once. Start slow and work your way up.

Perhaps try two or three of these at first and then keep adding one per week until you’re doing all of them without even thinking about it. Positivity will become your new way of life.

Read our blog about “Checking in On Your Emotional Balance” to learn more.

What are your favorite tips for staying positive during difficult times?

Share your thoughts and comments with us.

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