To reject negative thoughts and substitute them with alternative positive options constitutes a good way to obtain a positive thinking style. Pessimistic thoughts tend to take over the person automatically and without following any logical pattern. It is therefore important to learn to identify such thoughts and to change the thinking style.

Positive thinking must be an ongoing, permanent style of mental activity. It should also extend to all (or almost all) life aspects. The following areas need consideration:

1. Positive thinking about oneself: Try and avoid building your self-concept by comparing yourself with TV stars and individuals from public life. They all portray unreal images. Accept your limitations and do something to improve those. Above all, do not forget to underline your values and abilities. Stop and reject self-depreciating thoughts.

2. Positive thinking about the past: The past cannot be changed. Accept it even though it may contain unpleasant events. But do not blame the past for your difficulties. That is useless. Never get obsessed with a disagreeable past. And as far as past positive events and anecdotes, remember them and enjoy them. Your attitude will improve and turn more positive.

3. Positive thinking about the future: The future can be changed. Your attitude today affects tomorrow’s events. When you think with confidence and hope about tomorrow, you are increasing the probability of a much successful future. And if something negative approaches, make plans now to prevent it instead of becoming anxious.

4. Positive thinking about people and the environment: Put on your rose-colored glasses and look around. Not everything is perfect, but there are beautiful things and pleasant experiences. Do not grow suspicious of other people. Trust them and respect them and make efforts to feel affection towards them. Try to understand the problems of others. Help them and you will see how your attitude becomes sweeter.

Many are dominated by irrational beliefs – ideas without logical sense that are able to cause unhappiness and even disorders. For example:

a) ‘We are permanently surrounded by dangers and risks, it is natural to always feel worried and fearful.’

b) ‘Unhappy and unfortunate people can do nothing to improve their situations.’

c) ‘In order for me to be happy and to live in peace with myself, I must be loved and receive approval from everyone who knows me’.

d) ‘There is always a perfect solution to every problem and if that solution is not realized, disastrous consequences follow.’

The above statements are fallacies and those living by them may experience psychological pain and even unhappiness. Make every effort to identify and analyze your favorite irrational beliefs. Reason logically in order to reject these thoughts and accept better alternatives.