Positive thinking has also been linked to better stress management. The Broaden-and-Build theory of positive emotions, proposed by Barbara Fredrickson, suggests that positive emotions broaden one’s awareness and encourage novel, varied, and exploratory thoughts and actions. Over time, this leads to skill, resource, and emotional resilience building. Essentially, good vibes can help us bounce back from setbacks faster and stronger.

How To Be More Positive

There are various ways we can become more positive. 

1. Mindfulness and Gratitude

Mindfulness teaches us to be present in the moment, reducing stress and allowing us to appreciate the small joys of life. Gratitude goes hand-in-hand with this, encouraging us to focus on what we have rather than what we lack. Keeping a gratitude journal or simply taking a moment each day to reflect on things you're thankful for can shift your focus from negativity to appreciation.

2. Positive Affirmations

The language we use with ourselves influences our mindset. Positive affirmations are powerful tools for reshaping our internal dialogues. By repeating positive statements about ourselves, we can start to challenge and overcome self-sabotaging and negative thoughts. This could be as simple as starting your day by affirming, "I am capable and strong," or "I choose to make happiness a priority." Mel Robbins created the high 5 habit, which involves looking in the mirror when you wake up and giving yourself a high 5. Everyone loves a high five and the internal benefit of this can be huge for the rest of your day. 

3. Surround Yourself with Positivity

The company we keep can greatly influence our outlook on life. Surrounding ourselves with positive, supportive people can uplift us and help foster a more optimistic mindset. This doesn’t mean avoiding all negative people but rather nurturing relationships that are beneficial to your well-being and distancing yourself from toxic influences. If you are engaging with long term friends, who only talk about the ‘good old days’ and are doing things that aren’t aligned with your goals, then it is time to move on from them and find people who are doing things you want to do, and being the person you want to be. 

4. Setting Realistic Goals

Goal setting is integral to positive thinking. By setting achievable, realistic goals, we give ourselves the opportunity to experience success and the positive emotions that come with it. This process involves breaking larger goals into smaller, manageable steps and celebrating the victories along the way.

5. Embrace Positivity in Media and Content

In an era where we're bombarded with information, consciously choosing to consume media that uplifts and inspires can make a significant difference. Whether it’s books, podcasts, music, or films, seek out content that feeds your soul and enhances your positive outlook.

Overcoming Negativity Bias

Humans have a built-in negativity bias, an evolutionary trait that made us highly sensitive to potential dangers for survival purposes. This bias can make us disproportionately focus on the negative. Recognising and understanding this bias is the first step in overcoming it. When you catch yourself dwelling on negative thoughts, challenge them. Ask yourself if they're truly warranted and try to reframe them in a more positive or realistic light.

The Ripple Effect of Good Vibes

Your positive thinking doesn't just benefit you, it has a ripple effect. By adopting a positive mindset, you can influence those around you. Positivity begets positivity. Acts of kindness and positivity can inspire others to pass on the good vibes, creating a more supportive and joyful community.

Realism and Positive Thinking

It’s important to note that positive thinking is not about ignoring the reality of challenging situations or pretending everything is fine when it isn’t. It's about approaching life's difficulties with a hopeful attitude and believing in your ability to cope with them. This approach allows for emotional acknowledgment of problems while still maintaining a belief in a positive outcome.

Integrating Positive Thinking into Your Life

Integrating positive thinking into your life is a journey, not a destination. It requires practice and patience. Start small, perhaps with a gratitude journal or by setting aside time for activities that bring you joy. Over time, these small changes can lead to a significant shift in your overall outlook.

To conclude, good vibes and positive thinking can have a huge impact on your life and the lives of people you interact with. By thinking positive and being upbeat about challenges, we give ourselves a better chance, not only of success, but genuine happiness.