Is That Smoke I Smell?

Ever wondered why it is easier to think negatively? or why you worry more about something bad happening than something good?

It turns out your brain is wired for survival. 

We process negative information automatically and with greater sensitivity. 

This is useful if your house really is burning down but otherwise it creates a disposition towards stress if left to its own devices.

It is so powerful that we need five positive experiences for every negative one to keep the balance. 

 This is the case for thoughts, emotions, interactions and events.

Depending on your upbringing, support around you and what you ultimately tell yourself. The good news is you can make a difference to your default setting.

Some ways to tip towards positive thinking is to practise noticing negative patterns when they come up, show kindness like you would a friend to that negative self talk, substitute a new thought I wish I made a different choice, I’ll know for next time.

Most importantly deliberately tease out moments in your day where you succeed and feel good. You will not strengthen your positive outlook but that of your children.

So the next time you find yourself reflecting on all the things that have gone wrong, pause and pull out a tiny moment of positivity such as the washing didn’t get rained on.