I am clearly not the person to give advise. I cannot tell you what to do but I'll tell you what I did. Here's a back story. I had birth my children when I was still young. I was skinny and it made me conscious because I don't look like a mother instead I look like an older sister to my children- and it's not flattering. Teachers, Social workers and Doctors doesn't seemed to trust my own children with me because I look like a kid myself. So I piled on weight. At the same time my divorce was finalized and I was free. I was also started on medication. After a few months I had gained 20 kg and I became overweight. I intended for a little weight gain but not being obese. I look at the mirror and I was devastated. Over the years, in my twenties I battled weight gained and depleting confidence. Then the pandemic came. It was during the fasting month of Ramadhan that I started working out after breaking my fast. I lost only two kilos. Then when the lock down was slowly redu...
Fostering positivity and encouraging yourself to do things that make you happy can be a gradual process, but it’s definitely achievable. Here are some steps and activities that can help:
1. Create a Self-Care Routine
Building regular habits that nurture your well-being is key. This doesn’t have to be complicated:
Morning Routine: Start your day with something uplifting like stretching, listening to calming music, or reading something inspiring.
Evening Routine: Wind down with a gratitude practice, writing down three things you're thankful for, or something that went well that day, no matter how small.
2. Celebrate Small Wins
Sometimes we overlook the small accomplishments that can build our confidence. Make it a habit to acknowledge the small things you do each day, like completing a task, getting outside, or even making time for yourself. These are all steps forward.
Positive Reinforcement: Each time you do something that brings you joy or relaxation, tell yourself, "I did this for me, and I deserve it."
3. Engage in Activities You Love
Revisit Joyful Hobbies: Think about activities you’ve loved in the past but may have let slip, like painting, reading, cooking, or something creative.
Experiment with New Things:
Try something new, even if it’s just for fun. Sometimes stepping outside of your comfort zone with a new hobby can bring excitement and help shift your mindset.
4. Set Small, Achievable Goals
Break down tasks or goals into manageable steps. For example, if you're feeling stuck, start with something easy like tidying up one part of your room or doing a 5-minute meditation.
Celebrate Progress: Reward yourself when you hit these small goals with something that makes you feel good, like a favorite snack, an episode of your favorite show, or a nice walk.
5. Positive Self-Talk
Replace harsh self-criticism with kind, encouraging words. When you catch yourself being negative, gently challenge that thought: "Is this helping me, or hurting me?"
Then replace it with something affirming like, "I’m learning and growing every day."Use uplifting mantras like, "I am capable," "I choose happiness," or "I am allowed to enjoy life."
6. Practice Gratitude
Spend time each day reflecting on what you’re thankful for, no matter how small. It could be something as simple as your morning coffee or a kind word from a friend.
Keep a gratitude journal and write down these things. It can shift your focus from what's missing to what you already have that brings you peace and joy.
7. Surround Yourself with Positivity
People: Seek out people who lift you up, support your growth, and encourage you to be your best self.
Environment: Create a space around you that feels positive. Declutter, add calming elements like plants, or artwork that makes you smile.
Content: Listen to podcasts, read books, or watch shows that are uplifting and aligned with your desire to feel more positive.
8. Move Your Body
Exercise, even in small amounts, releases endorphins, which help you feel happier and more positive. This can be as simple as taking a walk, doing yoga, or dancing to your favorite song.
Physical activity also helps clear your mind, reduce stress, and boost your mood.
9. Mindfulness and Meditation
Practicing mindfulness can help you stay present and reduce negative thinking. You can do this through simple breathing exercises, focusing on your surroundings, or using apps like Headspace or Calm for guided meditation.
Even 5-10 minutes a day can help reset your mind and improve your sense of well-being.
10. Get Outside
Spending time in nature can have a calming and mood-boosting effect. Even just a few minutes outside can help reset your mood, reduce stress, and bring clarity.
11. Be Gentle with Yourself
Positivity doesn’t mean forcing yourself to be happy all the time. It’s okay to feel down sometimes. Treat yourself with compassion and patience, knowing that feelings come and go, but you are always deserving of care.
The key is consistency, but also being kind to yourself along the way. It's not about instant change, but about gradually building habits that lift your mood and keep you focused on what makes you feel good. Keep exploring what works for you!
~A leap of faith is all you need for a more beautiful life.~
@chirpbirdee
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