Transform Your Mindset: The Power of Positive Thinking

Hey there 👋🏻, welcome back to Upgrade!

Last week, we talked about self-awareness and how it can help us achieve our goals. This week, I want to discuss something that has been on my mind lately - the power of positive thinking.

The journey from a 9 to 5 employee to running three businesses was not easy. Over the last 5 years, I navigated from being an international student in Australia to working full-time on a temporary visa(s) and setting up a startup. The biggest challenge during this period was a mental battle with myself. My imposter and lack of positive thinking made me drag things, take no action, stay away from risks and become anxious about things over I do not have control.

I've come to realize that my mindset is a powerful tool that shapes my perception of the world around me. When I have a positive mindset, I see challenges as opportunities for growth and success, and this has led to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

The notion of "positive thinking" is often criticized by sceptics and cynics who consider it impractical and unrealistic. However, a closer look at history's top performers in sports and business reveals that they consistently espouse positive thinking, and with good reason – it works. Read more here

"Things have a way of working themselves out if we just remain positive." – Lou Holtz.

Research indicates that individuals with positive outlooks live longer, healthier, and more successful lives than their pessimistic counterparts. Nevertheless, some people misunderstand the concept of positive thinking and assume it means never experiencing setbacks. In reality, positive thinking refers to how you react to the challenges that will inevitably arise. Ultimately, positively or negatively, how you respond to adversity makes all the difference in life.

Here are a few tips that have helped me cultivate a positive mindset:

Practising gratitude: I take time each day to reflect on what I'm grateful for, and this helps me shift my focus to the positive aspects of my life.

"9,000 days were set aside,
9,000 days of destiny…" - Invictus theme song on Nelson Mandela spending 9000 days in prison

Surrounding myself with positive people: The people I spend time with greatly impact my mindset. I try to surround myself with positive, supportive people who uplift and inspire me.

Reframing negative thoughts: When I have negative thoughts, I try to reframe them in a more positive light. For example, instead of thinking, "I can't do this," I try to think, "I can do this with practice and perseverance."

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UpgradeBenjemen Elengovan

Practising self-compassion: I've learned to be kind and compassionate to myself, especially when facing challenges or setbacks. Making mistakes is a natural part of learning, and we must be gentle with ourselves.

Visualizing success: I imagine myself achieving my goals and experiencing success. Visualizing success helps motivate me and keeps me focused on my goals. I'll write a separate in-depth blog on this topic.

Cultivating a positive mindset is like training in the gym, and it takes time and practice to shift our perspective and embrace a more positive outlook on life. But with patience and persistence, we can transform our mindsets and unlock our full potential.