How to Shift to a More Positive Mindset
In my last blog – Living Your Best Life: Turning Impossibilities to Possibilities – we explored the power of positivity and how shifting your outlook allows you to see possibilities rather than focusing on "impossibilities." In this post, we’ll dive deeper into practical ways to train your mind to embrace positivity and transform your mindset.
For many, positivity doesn’t come naturally. It’s not your fault—humans are hardwired with something called "negativity bias." How often do you find yourself replaying an embarrassing moment, dwelling on things that went wrong, or fixating on negative feedback?
Recently, a friend of mine received some tough feedback in a performance review. Whether the critique was accurate or not, it completely shook their confidence. The dozens of glowing 360-degree reviews they’d received over the years didn’t matter—that one piece of negative feedback consumed them. It’s a classic example of negativity bias at work. I’m not immune to this either. I still replay a presentation I fumbled years ago, remembering every heart-pounding second. Yet, I struggle to recall details of all the successful presentations I’ve given since. Why? Because our minds tend to hold on to the bad and brush over the good.
So, how do we break free from this cycle? How can we shift to a more positive mindset? Even if you are not naturally inclined towards a positive outlook, you can actually train your brain to start looking for the positive. One method I love comes from Shawn Achor’s book, The Happiness Advantage. While Achor recommends a variety of activities—like meditation and exercise—let’s start small with one effective practice: journaling.
“If we understood the power of our thoughts, we would guard them more closely. If we understood the awesome power of our words, we would prefer silence to almost anything negative. In our thoughts and words, we create our own weaknesses and our own strengths. ”
Journal Your Way to Positivity
Journaling is a simple yet powerful way to reframe your mindset. Below are three steps to get started:
1. Set a Mantra for the Day – Start your day with an inspirational quote or mantra and write it at the top of your to-do list. As you reference your list throughout the day, this mantra will serve as a visual cue to keep you centered and focused. Need inspiration? Check out Empowering Mindset Series: Words to Live by.
2. List 2–3 Things You’re Grateful For Today – Morning or evening, jot down a few things you’re grateful for. They don’t have to be big—sometimes the little joys in life mean the most. Here are my gratitudes for today:
Salon Bliss: I indulged in some self-care with a fabulous blowout by my stylist, Michelle. I feel like a rockstar—thank you, Michelle!
Husband Goals: My husband tackled the grocery shopping while I was at the salon. Farmer’s markets are my jam, but a typical supermarket? Not so much.
Dinner Delight: To top it all off, he cooked dinner. Talk about feeling spoiled!
3. Celebrate 2–3 Accomplishments Each Day
End your day by reflecting on what you achieved—big or small. Recognizing these wins builds confidence and momentum. My accomplishments today:
Researching for an upcoming blog.
Reading a few chapters of a novel (purely for enjoyment).
Carving out time to write and post this blog!
Consistency is Key
Like any new habit, shifting your mindset takes time. By consistently journaling—ideally daily—you’ll start to notice a shift in how you view the world. Don’t expect immediate results; it’s the small, consistent steps that lead to big transformations.
Want a free, specially formatted journaling page to help you get started? Subscribe and leave a comment, and I’ll send you a downloadable PDF as my gift to you.
Happy journaling—I can’t wait to hear how it’s helping you thrive!
Affiliate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you make a purchase through the affiliate links provided, a small commission may be earned at no additional cost to you. All book recommendations reflect the Lounge Chair Librarian's genuine opinions and personal enthusiasm for these titles. These commissions help cover the costs of maintaining this site and allow us to continue sharing great reads with you. Thank you for your support!