We all have negative thoughts from time to time. When that happens, it can be draining and also make you lose the motivation to do anything meaningful. Depending on how deep or wild these thoughts are, their consequences can be very dreadful, ranging from depression to suicide. When it happens, it can affect every area of our lives.
It is very important that we start early to figure out all these negative thoughts and voices and get rid of them so that they don’t consume us.
Here are some ways to get rid of these thoughts
1. Figure out why you are having these negative thoughts:
Why are you upset about these thoughts? What about these thoughts make you uncomfortable?
Oftentimes, negative thoughts persist because of guilt, anger, uncertainty about the future, jealousy, hurt, trauma, or simply because you are scared of failure. Other times, it could be triggered by things, people, or events.
Trying to figure out why you are having these thoughts might be the key to breaking away from them and tackling the problem. If you have a friend or significant other who constantly triggers bad thoughts, give yourself some space from this person.
2. Remember that occasional bad thoughts are normal:
We are all humans and some days, we don’t feel so good and that’s normal. It could either be due to the work, health, things not going as planned, or generally, due to circumstances we cannot change, this is normal. but when these negative thoughts become draining or begin to affect our daily lives, then it becomes a problem.
Remember that these negative emotions are actually OK. Emotions help us connect with our own experiences and with others.
I understand that sometimes we feel like we are the only ones with that problem, or we feel all alone. Yeah, we have all felt that way at some point. Bad thoughts are a part of life. Try not to beat yourself up about it, because they aren’t your fault.
3. Go out more often:
Going out and spending time outdoors is an excellent way to get rid of negative thoughts. This is not necessarily about physical activity although you can incorporate it. It is mostly about stepping away from the chaos of life, spending more time with people, being in nature, and building social interaction. This way you get to spend less time in your head, thinking and analyzing negative thoughts.
Research done among office workers showed that even a view of nature out a window is associated with lower stress. Imagine how better you will feel when you go outside
4. Do something that takes your mind off that thought or something that makes you happy:
We all have something we enjoy doing. It could be calling a friend or family, cooking, baking, listening to music, watching a movie, looking back at old photos of a fun event or vacation, reading a novel, etc.
Doing something that brings back good memories can help you smile and do away with the negative thoughts.
5. Don’t run, face it:
Giving yourself pep talks about why you shouldn’t think about the negative thought isn’t good enough. You need to either face it head-on or move your thoughts in another direction.
Pushing it aside for too long doesn’t solve the problem. It only makes it worse. Also, depending on the situations presented, your reaction might be to face the problem now or set it aside to deal with it later.
6. Let Go:
Most times, we spend more time dwelling on the past and these negative thoughts, that we miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the positive vibes. Instead of focusing on the problems and the damage cost, figure out the best strategies to do better next time.
Learn from your mistake and take practical steps to ensure that it does not repeat in the future.
Focus on building yourself up, rather than expecting the worst.
7. Smile more often.
Sometimes, ditch the serious face! Smile!
Studies have shown that smiling releases chemicals inside your body that makes you happier. Neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins play a huge role. The endorphins act as a mild pain reliever, whereas serotonin is an antidepressant.
When you smile you attract more positivity. So show off your beautiful smile, look happy and be happy!
If you’re going through a rough time, make out time to watch your favorite comedies to boost your mood.
