Positive by Design
By Esther Cohen
Have you ever noticed how much easier it is to remember what went wrong rather than what went right? Why is that? Why do we so often gravitate toward the negative, replaying mistakes, hurts or criticisms, while the positives quietly fade into the background?
One of the brain’s main jobs is to keep us safe. That’s why it reacts more strongly to negative experiences, images, or conversations. Those get processed more deeply and stored quickly to protect us from danger. But there’s a downside: it can leave us feeling constantly on edge, anxious, and stuck in fight, flight, or freeze mode.
Imagine if we could open our eyes and see the good in every person, the positive in every circumstance and the opportunity in every challenge? Sounds impossible? Like wishful thinking from ’La, la, Land’?
Science backs up what Jewish mystical teachings has known all along: the brain can be coached to think positively and find new ways to interpret and adapt to situations. When we focus on the good, stay positive, and practise gratitude, we open the door to greater well-being.
The way we talk to ourselves about experiences and people in our lives, greatly influences how we understand and internalise them. When we focus on the negative, we tend to interpret events harshly and judge others unfavourably, which increases our stress and overall negativity. But if we choose to focus on the good, the positive and the opportunities, these same experiences can propel us forward, awakening determination, gratitude and positive energy.
It is time to adjust our mindset. It is time to challenge ourselves to open our eyes and:
See the good in every person
See the positive in every circumstance
See the opportunity in every challenge!
If you find yourself struggling with negativity or if you are having difficulty seeing the good in people and situations, I offer supportive therapy to help you shift your mindset and find greater peace. Click on ‘Book a Session’ to find out more.