We live in an increasingly negative world. The news, our social media streams, and the conversations around us are full of complaints and sadness. It can be hard to maintain a positive outlook while surrounded by so much negativity.
What can you do to avoid the spiral of negativity?
Here are 3 tips we think will help any Christian trying to stay positive:
1. Spend More Time Praying
Lasting life changes can never be made alone. You need God to help make up the difference when you fall short. Taking your attitude from negative to positive won't happen overnight - and that's okay! Praying daily and telling God about your desire to change your attitude allows him to see that you really want to change. As you pray, ask God to help you not conform to the pattern of this world (Romans 12:2 NIV). Sincere prayers will show God that you are ready for your mind to be transformed.
2. List Your Blessings
A great way to keep positivity as your focus is to list out your blessings. This can be done in a notebook or on a list app on your phone. Make sure this list can be easily found so you can look at it and add to it daily. Keep in mind that blessings aren't always huge miracles; sometimes they're as simple as not having to wait in line at the coffee shop for a long time. As you list your blessings, remember that every good and perfect gift is from above (James 1:17 NIV). By taking time each day to be grateful for your blessings, God will allow you to see his hand in everything.
3. Go Easy on Yourself
Above all, keeping a positive attitude has to start with loving yourself. God wants you to succeed no matter what obstacles you might be facing. Remember that you are altogether beautiful; there is no flaw in you (Song of Solomon 4:7 ESV). Progress is a lifelong quest. When you remember that God created a perfect you, it will make seeing the good around you so much easier.