Have you ever noticed that negative people tend to stay negative and that their thought processes always seem to follow a predictable pattern? It’s not just coincidence– there’s a physiological reason why this happens, and it’s equal parts good and bad news. Here’s the bad news: negative thinking can rewire your brain like a bad habit, causing you to fall into ongoing cycles of negativity which can make you miserable. Here’s the good news though: you can do something about it!
How Negativity Changes Your Brain and Body
When you think negative or critical thoughts, your body is more likely to become stressed. And when you become stressed, your body responds by producing a chemical called cortisol, which not only makes you feel bad, but can exacerbate the symptoms of mental illnesses like depression and schizophrenia, and cause you to sleep poorly and have trouble getting along with others. Not surprisingly, this can also lead to physical health problems.
What You Can Do About It
It takes time, but if you actively train your brain to think positive thoughts instead of negative ones, you can effectively rewire your thinking which will reduce the levels of cortisol in your body. When you feel a negative thought creeping in, immediately think of something positive. However, you have to be vigilant and do this every single time. If you’re successful at this, you will find that you experience less anxiety and depression, as well as numerous health benefits.
Examples of Redirecting
“I’m not good at this” is a common thought people have when trying something new. But it’s a negative thought through and through. Replace it with “I am doing my best, and will improve with practice.” Another good thing to do when negative thoughts creep in is to think of something you are grateful for, like friends, family, or good health. Luckily, there are lots of programs and web resources in existence that can assist with this kind of thing!
I’m Jessica Cox, and I feel that the key to a healthy happy life is positivity. When you stay positive, you’re able to bounce back from life’s difficulties quicker and easier, and by result accomplish bigger and better things. If you’d like me to share my life story at your business convention or religious gathering, please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact me.