Positive Thinking - An Art

“The Pessimist Sees Difficulty In Every Opportunity. The Optimist Sees Opportunity In Every Difficulty.”

                                                   - Winston Churchill 

This is the change I hope to see in myself by the end of this year. 

We cannot shirk the importance of positivity as it enhances our lifestyle, instills a sense of confidence in ourselves, and brings happiness in our lives.

Importance of Positivity: 

Though positivity is always cardinal, its necessity in these times of distress when the entire world is being deracinated from their busy lives and pushed into what is now being called ‘the new normal’. We, as a world, are grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. This has affected the mental health of millions of people. People from around the world are struggling betwixt the increasing levels of stress and anxiety because of the pervading virus and the stigma attached to depression. It is invariably detrimental to our health and could lead to depression amidst other complications. Thus it is of utmost importance to discuss the need of staying positive in the trying times. 

Also, is crucial to understand that ‘positivity’ and ‘depression’ are inextricable, although they are two different terms. Positive thinking is the foundation of overcoming depression and hauls us from the negative thoughts consuming us from within. Being optimistic in these times of endless misery will be the blinding sliver of light that slowly guides joy into our lives.

Negative Thoughts and its ill effects: 

What if our thoughts are predominantly negative? Negative thoughts comprise of our own misconceptions, presumptions because of a lack of information and confusion that have overpowered our ability to reasoning out.  This can be best explained in the words of Helen Keller. 

“When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.”

                                                     - Helen Keller 

Toxic Positivity and its ill effects: 

Being overly optimistic could also turn out to be a downside. We should not be living within the confines of our make-believe world, strongly believing that everything is great, when in reality–it is not. Gradually, we might end up settling for lesser and give up on our potential. Life would become a 'compromise with reality' if we remain positive at all times. Thus, what we require is a balanced approach of remaining positive while accepting rational, unpleasant emotions or thoughts that teach us the reality of life.

Positivity - A way of life: 

Positivity is not a trait that is achievable overnight. It takes time to inculcate the quality and to incorporate it into our daily lives. 

Also, it is a herculean task to practice it every day despite the dire tribulations we face. However, once we achieve this quality, it will culminate into an ocean of zest which will open the doors to limitless opportunities. It is pertinent to note that ‘optimism’ is not a onetime behavioral action but a continuous process that seeks to improve our well-being. Also, optimism and positivity are not exercises that uplift our life. We should perceive it as an inevitable aspect and as a way of life. 

Hence, let us marvel at the little triumphs we have made and cherish the successes we have accomplished. Over time, these positive thoughts will increase manifold and lead to a happy, fulfilling life.

 Let us hope for the best and trust our life journey. Be positive :)

Do share your views and do let me know where the line between positivity and toxic positivity must be drawn :)