Brainstorm to get many ideas down quickly. Make outlines to help structure your thoughts. Write an essay to help you fully articulate your thoughts.
Be realistic. Acknowledge your situation and abilities when you’re planning. [2] X Research source Keep your goals action-oriented. Don’t focus on things or on what you have or don’t have. Focus on what you can do. Frame your goals in a positive light. You’re more likely to achieve your goals if you see them as something you’re working toward, not something you’re working against. [3] X Research source
Pick a few goals and imagine that you have achieved them. Make sure these goals are personally meaningful, not status symbols. Write down all the details of your scenarios. Imagine characteristics you will need to make them work. Consider which of these traits and skills you already have.
See yourself as cause, not consequence. Optimists believe negative events or experiences can be overcome. For example, if you’re having a bad day, take it as a challenge. Don’t let yourself feel defeated. Start small. Don’t feel you have to take on everything at once.
Some people are grateful by nature, but you can train yourself to develop gratitude. [11] X Trustworthy Source Greater Good Magazine Journal published by UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, which uses scientific research to promote happier living Go to source Make a time every day, like before dinner, to say things you’re thankful for. Remember to thank store clerks, delivery people and coworkers more often.
Try different kinds of meditation. Look online or talk to local meditation teachers to find ones best suited for you. Make it a regular habit. Meditation works best when it is done every day at the same time, so that you make it firmly part of a routine.
When you feel like a failure, remind yourself of past success. If you’re angry at someone, try to see it from their point of view. During sadness, make yourself watch funny movies or crack an impromptu joke.
Treat yourself on a bad day. Do something that distracts you, to break your frame of mind. Get some rest and relaxation.
Work to solve problems you’re obsessing over. Instead of thinking about it, take action. Change the situation, or talk to people who can. Practice positive self-reflection. If you spend a lot of time thinking about your negative traits, interrupt your thoughts with self-praise. Tell yourself you did a great job or that you tried your best.
Life coaches and spiritual mentors can help you with strategies for inner happiness. Therapists, psychologists and psychologists are qualified to help with mental health problems.
