New Year, New Success: Positive Attitude for the Win

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Studies show that attitude really is everything – many studies cite the benefits of positive thinking in helping to open neural pathways and thus executing a kind of “brain-chain” of creativity, playfulness and a willingness to be more open.  So how can you integrate these thoughts, and their benefits into your life and studies?

When you take the time to foster a positive attitude, you’re more likely to see solutions instead of problems.  A solution focused brain helps take us to the next level of integrating positive thinking by engaging the parasympathetic nervous system.  Just like negative thinking and the development of neural pathways that can over time lead to depression, anxiety and trauma based reactions, the brain is also capable of changing circuitry to build default positive paths.

So instead of thinking that the person in front of you in line at the supermarket is taking too long, instead you smile and breathe and think about how nice it is to have some extra time to yourself.  Or instead of bemoaning all the homework assigned in just the first week back, you look at it as an opportunity to quickly re-acclimate to the challenges of school.

But…I have already spent so much time building negative pathways!
Yes, well this may be true, but the brain is completely plastic, even in adults – it may take longer to build new pathways, but by remaining aware of your thoughts and feelings, and using a system such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), or mindfulness meditation to stay on top of things, you can become more and more positive over time.  For some helpful ideas on how to implement better habits that can support positive thinking, try this article.  This article gives some helpful tips – just scroll to the bottom.

For further resources about mindfulness and learning, click here.

Do you notice a difference in your outlook on life when you’re positive?