5 Ways to be more positive in 2018

With less than a week left in 2017, it’s time to start packing away the bad memories and emotional baggage you’ve carried with you throughout the year so as to prepare yourself a fresh start in 2018.

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It’s okay if 2017 did not treat you very well. The ups and downs you’ve experienced this year will help you grow and better understand yourself as an individual. Start the new year right by adopting these 5 ways to be more positive!

1. Gratitude is key

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Leave those negative thoughts, judgments and disappointments behind. Instead, engulf yourself in gratefulness. Appreciate even the smallest details in your life, such as having a good night’s sleep, a warm cup of coffee, or the ability to make someone smile. Keep a list of things you’re grateful for each day, and read through it when you’re feeling down and defeated. A gratitude list is great for a pick me up, and acts as the perfect reminder to stay positive.

2. Smile

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Even on the toughest of days, do your best to keep up with that smile. Start each day with a wide grin in front of a mirror, you’ll be surprised at how such a small gesture helps to brighten up your day. Furthermore, by smiling, you spread positivity to others as well, who will, in turn, make your day one way or another.

3. Ditch the toxic people

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Life is too short to be wasted on people who make you feel inferior and negative. It’s hard to keep a positive mind if you surround yourself with people who constantly try to pull you down. Leave such toxic relationships behind, and proceed into the new year with those who genuinely care for you. Your social circle has a big impact on your life, so always be selective about who you acquaint yourself with.

4. Eat healthily

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You are what you eat. The food you consume influences your health and moods. By eating healthily, your health improves and you feel more energized to not only take on any challenges but also to seize any opportunities that come your way. Foods are pretty magical, and have the ability to make you feel blissful and warm. Start meal planning to ensure that your food intake supports a positive mind!

5. Set goals

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We all need a direction in life which we can strive towards. Now is a good time to sit down and ask yourself what you would like to achieve in 2018. It’s really up to you how you would like to set your goals – they can be small milestones to hit throughout the year, or just an overall goal that is achievable and realistic. Goals prevent us from stagnancy, which may make us feel insufficient and unmotivated.

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With a positive mindset, no setbacks will be too hard to overcome, and no obstacles will stop you in your path. Stay determined, focused and motivated!

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