3 Ways to Maintain a Positive Perspective

Life can be amazing sometimes. There are days when acts of kindness come easily and everything seems to be going right. Other days can be downright tough, and discouragement can be difficult to avoid. Despite every attempt to do things right and prepare for contingencies, the hard knocks occasionally come to call.

When faced with unpleasant circumstances it may be tempting to react negatively. Even worse, if difficulty persists, it can lead to a downhearted attitude. Even when things go wrong there are ways to keep attitudes right. Before giving into despair, look at some ways to keep a positive perspective.

Practice Gratitude Mindfully

Regardless of how bleak a situation may appear there are always some things we can be grateful for. Even if those things are good memories. Thankfulness is one effective tool to avoid staying discouraged. Some people keep a gratitude journal or list to revisit in hard times. Purposefully focusing on the good, regardless of how small it may be, can go a long way toward staying out of the doldrums.

Practice Self Kindness

Often, when difficulties come, self-neglect can be part of the problem. Taking adequate time to rest and eat a healthy diet can provide the boost needed to get out of the dumps. Finding something enjoyable to do is another act of self-care that can help overcome discouragement. This may seem a little selfish. Quite to the contrary, it is a mature, responsible way to maintain a healthy frame of mind.

Practice Kindness Toward Others

Another way to avoid getting sucked into depression is to find someone less fortunate and do something kind for them. Realizing that others are facing and dealing with unpleasant circumstances, and doing something to help them, is yet another proven method to stay positive. Recognizing that others face and surmount adversity regularly helps keep things in perspective.

It is tempting to give in to discouragement when life gets rough. Remaining grateful, focusing on self-care and helping others are effective ways to stay positive even in the face of difficulty.