With the world seeming to be in such a state of turmoil, it's easy to feel like things are only getting worse. But it's important to remember that bad news doesn't always reflect reality. Just because something is being talked about a lot doesn't mean it's actually happening more often. So why does it seem like there's so much bad news? Well, for one thing, news outlets are more likely to report on negative events than positive ones. After all, sensational stories sell papers and get clicks. But another reason is that our brains are wired to pay more attention to negative information.
Our brains are constantly bombarded with information and have evolved to help us survive by avoiding dangers. While this may have been helpful in the past, it often leads to us fixating on the problems, overestimating risks, and overlooking the positives. The good news is that this is just a bias, and that we can train our minds to pay attention to what's really important (and what’s truly happening around us), and not get lost in our thoughts or a spiral of negativity.
This is the power of mindset and why it is the foundation for everything we do in life. It's the attitude we bring to every situation, and it determines how we react to challenges and setbacks. A negative mindset can lead to discouragement and defeat—to only seeing what’s wrong and could go wrong. A positive mindset enables us to see possibilities instead of obstacles, and it allows us to stay resilient in the face of adversity.
Mindset is so important because it:
Shapes our beliefs about ourselves and the world around us. Our beliefs affect our actions and decision-making, so a fixed or negative mindset can limit your potential while a growth mindset can help us reach our full potential.
Impacts our relationships with other people. A positive mindset attracts others and creates harmonious relationships, while a negative mindset creates tension and conflict.
Affects our health. Stress and anxiety can take a toll on our physical well-being, but a positive outlook can help us maintain our vitality and energy.
By cultivating a positive mindset, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and greater success because we’re able to take a step back and remind ourselves that things aren't always as bad as they seem and there is still good in the world. That we can still have hope and be a force for good. That we can make a difference.
So where do we start? Here’s what I am doing and incorporating into my life right now:
Seek out good news. There are stories of kindness, compassion, and hope all around us. I am loving the following apps: Good News Network, Uplifting. Happy Daze, Goodable for inspiring news stories.
Practice gratitude. It all begins with you. Start by looking for the good in your own life. What are you grateful for? What are your strengths? How can you use your talents to make a difference in your community?
Take some time for yourself each day. Dedicate some time to doing something that you enjoy, without worrying about the world around you. This can help you to relax and recharge, so that you’re better equipped to deal with whatever comes your way.
When you focus on the positive, you'll be amazed at how much good you see around you. And when you choose to be a force for good, you'll find that you can make a real difference in the world. So don't give up hope—there is still good in the world and you can be a part of it.
