Stress is one of the most challenging emotions to manage and can have a negative impact on our physical and mental well-being. Positive thinking habits help us better manage our stress levels so that it does not become overwhelming. Here are some of the ways Sherief Abu-Moustafa recommends for people to develop positive thinking habits:
Acknowledge Your Feelings
It’s essential to recognize your feelings and be able to name them accurately. It will help you better understand why you are feeling stressed and how to manage it more effectively. If being able to identify your emotions feels foreign or uncomfortable, finding ways to expand your emotional vocabulary can be incredibly beneficial to becoming more aware of how you are feeling.
One way to do this is to keep a journal and write down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Journaling can help you sort out your emotions and give you a better perspective on how they influence your behavior. Books that break down different emotions can also help you better understand where your stress is coming from.
Practice Positive Self-Talk
We all have a voice inside our heads, and with time and effort, we can learn to control what that voice says. Start by replacing negative thoughts with positive ones – if you worry or ruminate over something, take some time to remind yourself of the positive aspects of your life.
Celebrating positives can be anything from an accomplishment you’ve achieved recently to a small success or even something you love about yourself. Positive self-talk can also help reduce stress and create a more positive outlook. So practicing affirming yourself is vital to make positive thinking a habit.
Make Time For Relaxation
We often get so caught up in our daily lives that we forget to take time for ourselves and relax. Scheduling regular breaks into your day can help you hit the reset button and alleviate some of your stress levels. Whether it’s five minutes of meditation, a break from work, or just taking the time to enjoy a cup of tea and read a book – make sure to permit yourself to take some moments.
Another way many people can relax is through low-intensity exercises, such as yoga or walking. Exercising can also help clear your mind and bring clarity to whatever is causing you stress. There are a variety of yoga styles, from traditional classes to even goat yoga, making it a fun activity no matter your skill level.
Making time for yourself can help you relax and manage your stress levels and allow you to practice positive thinking habits. Taking a few moments each day to focus on the positives in life will create a more optimistic outlook and help you better manage any negative emotions.
Reach Out For Support
Sometimes, we can’t always manage our stress levels on our own. If you are feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with your current stress level, it is okay to reach out for help. Speaking to friends and family can be incredibly beneficial, as they may be able to offer helpful advice and provide emotional support.
It is also important to remember that professionals can offer help. Therapists, counselors, and life coaches can provide personalized assistance to help you better manage your stress and equip you with the tools necessary for long-term relief.
Practice Gratitude
Last but not least, it is important to practice gratitude. Taking the time to appreciate and acknowledge the good things in your life can help keep stress levels at bay. Writing down one or two things you are thankful for each day is a great way to create a positive attitude.
It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day chaos of life, so it’s essential to take a step back and remember all the things that make us feel lucky. Practicing gratitude helps remind us of our blessings and can be instrumental in managing stress.
Use Mindfulness Techniques
Mindfulness focuses on your present moment and being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and environment. It can help clarify stressful situations and better control your reactions when things don’t go as planned.
Various mindfulness techniques can be used to reduce stress, such as mindful breathing and meditation. Taking just a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness can be incredibly beneficial in the long term.
By implementing these tactics, Sherief Abu-Moustafa advocates that you can identify what causes your stress levels to rise, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and create a more positive outlook on life.
Final Thoughts
Sherief Abu-Moustafa understands that managing stress can be challenging, especially in today’s world. However, by taking the time to practice these tips and make small lifestyle changes, you can begin to manage your stress levels more effectively. Remember that it is crucial to give yourself permission to take breaks and reach out for help when necessary. It will ensure that you are better equipped to handle whatever life throws your way.
The content is intended to augment, not replace, information provided by your clinician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Reading this information does not create or replace a doctor-patient relationship or consultation. If required, please contact your doctor or other health care provider to assist you to interpret any of this information, or in applying the information to your individual needs.
