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{*Did you know you can write on Elephant? Here’s how—big changes: How to Write & Make Money or at least Be of Benefit on Elephant. ~ Waylon}
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It’s no secret—we all want to be happy.
We want to greet each day feeling like we’re on top of the world, ready to take on whatever challenges come our way while wearing a smile and maintaining a pep in our step.
But for many of us, we’re more likely to wake up feeling like a deflated balloon than a ray of sunshine. The fact is, trying to maintain a positive mindset can feel like we’re attempting to build a sandcastle during high tide—it can be futile, frustrating, and is inevitably washed away.
But we all know people who seem to have an endless reserve of positivity, those who seem to face life’s daily trials without showing so much as a hint of frustration, impatience, hopelessness, or worse.
Even when they’re up against a deadline, they’re hitting every red light while running late for an appointment, the kids are crying or the cat knocked over their cup of coffee, they remain composed and even downright upbeat.
What’s their secret, you ask? How do some people seem to possess a never ending fountain of positivity while others struggle to coax so much as a drop of positive vibes from their emotional faucet?
Well, there are a number of influences at play here, some over which we have little-to-no control and others over which we have much control.
In the former category are things like early childhood experiences, social support, genetics, and brain chemistry. Those who were raised by supportive parents in a positive, reinforcement-rich environment are more likely to have an optimistic outlook. And genetics ensure that some are naturally more resilient and cheerful.
Differences in neurotransmitter levels, such as dopamine and serotonin, can also affect mood regulation and overall disposition. We’ll talk more about these important elements when we do a deep dive on glimmers.
In the “more within our control” category are factors like cultivating healthy coping mechanisms (think: mindfulness, exercise, gratitude practice, journaling, and so on) and tending to our overall health and well-being. For instance, practicing healthy sleep hygiene and eating whole, unprocessed foods can help us establish a more positive outlook on life.
There are a myriad of factors that can affect mindset; even luck, news consumption, and social media influences play a role. It’s easy to see how the quest for a positive mindset can be challenging at times.
The good news is a number of these elements are within our control. There are simple, actionable steps we can take to shift our perspective and not only see the glass half full, but appreciate the beauty of the glass itself, as well.
There are endless articles, books, and other resources on the importance of exercise, clean eating, and the role of sleep as pertains to a positive mindset, so we won’t dig into those influences. These are each also fairly self-explanatory.
Instead, we’re going to focus on a concept so simple, so commonplace, and so impactful, yet so often overlooked or even unknown—glimmers.
Glimmers are micro-moments of joy, those fleeting seconds when you feel a spark of happiness, contentment, peace, love, beauty, or connection. They’re the tiny miracles that can shift your perspective and remind you that life, despite its challenges, is worth celebrating. Recognizing, appreciating, and reflecting on these glimmers can be the key to unlocking a more positive mindset.
Now, let’s take a little detour into the land of science. Don’t worry, we’ll keep it simple and fun—no pop quizzes at the end, I promise.
Our brains are wired to focus on the negative. It’s a survival mechanism that dates back to our caveman days when noticing the rustle in the bushes could mean the difference between becoming a lion’s lunch or living to see another day. This is known as the negativity bias, and it’s the reason why we tend to remember the one negative comment amidst a sea of compliments.
But here’s the kicker: our brains are also incredibly adaptable. Thanks to a nifty concept called neuroplasticity, we have the power to rewire our brains and shift our focus from the negative to the positive. By consistently recognizing and savoring those glimmers, we can train our brains to seek out and appreciate the good in our lives.
So why should you care about cultivating a positive mindset? Aside from the obvious reason that it feels good to be happy, maintaining a positive mindset comes with a host of benefits for both your mental and physical health.
A positive mindset can act as a buffer against stress, anxiety, and depression. When you focus on the good in your life, you’re less likely to dwell on the negatives. This doesn’t mean ignoring life’s challenges but rather approaching them with a sense of resilience and optimism. Studies have shown that individuals with a positive outlook are better equipped to cope with stress and are less likely to experience burnout.
Believe it or not, your mindset can have a tangible impact on your physical health. People who maintain a positive outlook tend to have lower blood pressure, better immune function, and a reduced risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease. It’s like giving your body a VIP pass to the wellness club—all thanks to a little positivity.
And positivity is contagious. When you approach life with a positive mindset, you’re more likely to attract and maintain healthy, fulfilling relationships. People are naturally drawn to those who radiate positivity, and this can lead to deeper connections and a stronger support network.
Life is a wild, unpredictable ride, full of ups and downs, twists and turns. But within that chaos lies the potential for moments of pure joy, moments that can transform the way you see the world. By embracing the Glimmer Effect, you can unlock the power of these micro-moments and use them as a path to a positive mindset.
Remember, it’s not about erasing the negative or pretending everything is perfect. It’s about finding balance, savoring the good, and allowing those moments of light to guide you through the darkness.
So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover the incredible power of glimmers.
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