How to Find Joy and Positivity in Difficult Times
We all know that life can be tough. Sometimes, it feels like there’s a never-ending stream of challenges and obstacles to overcome. It’s easy to get bogged down by stress and negativity, and it can be hard to find joy and positivity in the midst of difficult times. But even in the darkest moments, it’s possible to find moments of happiness and hope.
I remember a time when I was going through a particularly tough period in my life. I was all alone to raise two little boys, my health had taken a turn for the worse, there was a heavy spring rain outside and we were into our second day without power. Everything felt overwhelming. I felt like I was constantly battling my own thoughts and emotions, and I couldn’t see a way out. It was a dark and difficult time—literally and figuratively. I felt like I was stuck in a never-ending cycle of bad luck.
But then, one day, something shifted. The rain had stopped. The power was back on and I went out for a walk. I happened to look up at the sky just as the sun was setting, and the sky was painted with the most beautiful shades of pink and orange. At that moment, I felt a glimmer of joy. It was a small thing, but it reminded me that there was still beauty and goodness in the world, even if I couldn’t see it when I needed it the most.
That moment was a turning point for me. It reminded me that even in the darkest moments, there are still things to be grateful for, still moments of joy to be found.
Because I know from personal experience that it’s possible to find moments of light in the darkness, and those moments can make all the difference, I want to share some ideas I have found for incorporating more joy and positivity into life, even during difficult times.
When we’re going through difficult times, it can be hard to imagine feeling happy or positive again. It’s easy to get caught up in negative thoughts and emotions. But the truth is, focusing on joy and positivity can have a profound impact on our lives. Here are just a few of the benefits.
Benefits of positive thinking
Mental health
Improved mental health: Research has shown that positive emotions can help to reduce stress and anxiety, and even improve symptoms of depression. Well, this is all great in theory but we can’t just turn off a negative thought like a faucet. I have noticed that some people are given to rumination, ie turning thoughts over and over in their heads.
I used to do this a lot and it is worse than getting stuck on a mud road in the spring. Wheels just keep turning, going deeper in their ‘stuckness’. Then I learned how to put these thoughts somewhere else.
A journal helps more than anything else I have found. I can rant, lament, or whine all I want in a journal and when my brain starts ruminating again (always at an importune time, like when I would rather be sleeping) I just remind myself “It’s all in the journal.”
There is something about our brains that just doesn’t want to let go. If you struggle with this, try journaling. You will find more articles about journaling on ardismayo.com – a work in progress but will be devoted to the benefits of journaling.
Stronger relationships
A second benefit to positive thinking is it builds stronger relationships: When we’re in a positive mindset, we’re more likely to attract positive people and experiences into our lives.
Additionally, when we’re able to approach our relationships with a positive attitude, we’re more likely to build strong, supportive connections with others.
There is a lot of truth to “Like attracts like.” If you have a lot of negative people around you it may be time to find new friends.
Increased resilience
The third benefit to positive thinking is increased resilience: Difficult times are inevitable, but focusing on joy and positivity can help us to bounce back from setbacks and challenges more quickly. When we’re able to maintain a positive outlook, we’re better equipped to handle whatever life throws our way.
Here are some tips that have worked for me. It isn’t an exhaustive list by far, but sometimes it helps to have a short list to return to when everything seems dark and undoable.
Tips to become more positive
Focus on the present
Focusing on the present moment is my number one tip for being more positive. It’s easy to get caught up in worries about the future or regrets about the past, but when we can be fully present in the moment, we can find joy in even the simplest things.
Take a few deep breaths, notice your surroundings, and focus on the present moment. You may challenge this “What if my present moment is watching my house burn down” or worse.
I would still recommend staying in the present moment. Adding thoughts about being homeless, running out of money, and losing precious mementos will not put out the fire, but will have the effect of pouring gasoline on what is already difficult. Stay in the moment. Regardless.
Do fun things
Engage in activities that bring you joy: Whether it’s going for a walk in nature, listening to music, or spending time with loved ones, engaging in activities that bring you joy is an important way to boost positivity in your life.
Make a list of the things that make you happy, and make a point to incorporate them into your life on a regular basis.
Practice gratitude
One of the most effective ways to boost positivity is to practice gratitude. Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for, whether it’s a supportive friend, a beautiful sunset, or a delicious meal.
Focusing on the positive aspects of your life can help shift your mindset to a more positive place.
My daily planner has three lines at the top to list my gratitudes before I even begin to figure out how I will get everything done. And I write three more at the end of every day as I wrap up.
Surround yourself with positivity
The people we surround ourselves with can have a big impact on our mood and outlook on life. Make a point to spend some time with people who lift you up and bring positivity into your life.
Similarly, try to avoid negative influences that bring you down. If you don’t have happy people in your life, spend a little time in happy places..a parade, a ball game, watching children play in a park, even the library attracts people who are happy to be reading.
Make small changes
Make small changes: Sometimes, the smallest changes can make the biggest difference. Whether it’s taking a different route to work, trying a new hobby, or rearranging your furniture, making small changes can help break up the monotony of daily life and bring a sense of joy and excitement.
I have several Lamy pens, each with a different color. When I get bored, stuck, or angry with myself, I switch pens. There is sure one to make me smile and I can continue. (Try the sky blue refills!)
For me, incorporating these tips into my life has made a big difference. I used to get caught up in worries about the future and regrets about the past, and it made it hard to find joy in the present moment.
But by focusing on the here and now, engaging in activities that bring me joy, and practicing gratitude, I’ve been able to shift my mindset to a more positive place.
What are your tips for shifting your mindset or mood—for getting unstuck when mired down with negative thoughts? Share them in the comments below.
