How to be More Positive: From Depression to Happiness

First of all, thank you for being here. The fact that you’ve stumbled upon or searched for ways on how to be more positive means that you’re on the right track. I used to find myself falling into long periods of depression and it didn’t seem to matter how much self-medicating I did, I still felt down.

Luckily, people who were suffering just like me have shared their stories of finding ways to stay positive, and one in particular resonated with me; that was daily gratitude journaling. It all came from discovering a morning routine that worked for me designed by Shawn Achor.

Even when we’re at our worst and life seems to weigh us down there are still things that can bring joy, that we can be grateful for. However, if you are currently struggling with depression I want you to know about Canada’s Crisis Help Lines. You are worthy. Please reach out for help.

Practicing daily gratitude helps retrain the mind to focus energy in positive areas. And by actively thinking about things that you are grateful for, you set yourself up for approaching life’s experiences with a healthier attitude. Trust me, just look at the photo of my first daily gratitude journal page below – I’ve been doing this since November 2016. And I am happy to report that I have been tracking my depression in my bullet journal and it is now rarely evident.

How to be more positive: a daily journal exercise

It may seem too simple, but the challenge lies in making this simple exercise a daily habit. And if you can create this habit you will be on your way to living more positively.

Write three things you are grateful for, examples below

1. I am grateful for a safe home and warm bed.
2. I am grateful for my friend who called me last night just to talk.
3. I am grateful for my pet who gives me love and affection.

Write one positive experience from the last 24 hours, example below

Yesterday it felt great to get outside for a walk. The sun was shining, I saw a woodpecker, and when I arrived home I felt energized.

Now that you’ve seen my sample journal entry and you have the layout all you need is the desire to try it for yourself. If you want to give gratitude a try I recommend collecting a piece of paper (or journal), a pen and put them beside your bed tonight. When you wake up in the morning make writing out your gratitude the first thing you do. I’m grateful that you’re here and you read this post.

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