12 Ways To Maintain Positive Mindset During Stress: T. M. Ogboye

Mindset encompasses your mental state, influencing your thoughts, emotions, and actions. It's your outlook on life, shaping your perception of the world. A positive mindset, or optimistic attitude, entails believing in favorable outcomes and anticipating goodness. Conversely, a negative mindset entails expecting unfavorable events and struggling to see the positives. Embracing a positive mindset empowers you to believe in yourself and your potential, serving as a catalyst for success in various aspects of life, including academics, career, and personal growth.

According to Kendra Cherry (2017) “Positive thinking means approaching life’s challenges with a positive outlook. It does not necessarily mean avoiding or ignoring the bad things; instead, it involves making the most of the potentially bad situations, trying to see the best in other people, and viewing yourself and your abilities in a positive light.”

Maintaining positivity during stress can be challenging, but there are some strategies that can help:
1. Deep breathing exercises: Take slow, deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth, focusing on the sensation of the breath.
2. Positive self-talk: Encourage yourself with positive affirmations, such as "I can handle this" or "I am strong and capable."
3. Gratitude practice: Reflect on the things you are grateful for, no matter how small they may seem.
4. Physical activity: Engage in some form of physical activity, such as a short walk or some stretching, to help release tension.
5. Mindfulness meditation: Take a few minutes to focus on the present moment, without judgment.
6. Connect with others: Reach out to a friend, family member, or colleague for support and connection.
7. Reframe stressors as challenges: View stressful situations as opportunities for growth and learning.
8. Take breaks and practice self-care: Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax.
9. Practice positive visualization: Imagine yourself handling the stressful situation with ease and confidence.
10. Get enough sleep and nutrition: Make sure you are well-rested and fueled to help manage stress.
11. Laugh it off: Watch a funny video, read a humorous article, or hang out with people who make you laugh.
12. Practice forgiveness and letting go: Release any negative emotions or thoughts and focus on moving forward.

It's okay to feel stressed, and it's important to acknowledge and validate your emotions. By incorporating these strategies into your daily life, you can better manage stress and maintain a positive outlook.