Monday Motivation: Turn Negatives Into Positives

Do you find yourself bogged down with worries and problems? I do. I'm sure everyone does. It is the human condition to see and focus on negatives in each situation easier than positives. How do we change this? We need to practice reframing our outlook on things and refocusing on the positives.

After reading the book "David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants" by Malcolm Gladwell, it changed my perspective on many things. For example, I learned the idea that disadvantages can have advantages within them and vice versa.

How can I apply this to turning negatives into positives? Well, you can reframe your perspective on what you view as negative.

Negative --> Positive

Challenge --> Opportunity

Mistake --> Lesson

Here are some examples:

I slept in today and I shouldn't have --> My body needed more rest and that will help me perform better today

Someone passed away in my family --> They are in a better place; community can be built from this; I can become more in touch with my emotions and become more emotionally mature; I will only grow stronger from this; I can help others through this

I barely have enough money to afford rent --> This is a challenge that will make me stronger and wiser; there may be a life-changing opportunity lying in this challenge

I lost my game/match --> I can learn from this and become a better player

I don't want to go to school/college today; it is boring and a waste of time --> Whether I go to class today or not and my reaction to this difficulty shows my character; if I work well and have a more positive outlook, I will not only gain in knowledge and wisdom, but also in character

I feel like my life is meaningless --> This is your opportunity to recognize the importance of purpose; find a purpose and always work towards it

Do you see how reframing completely changes the narrative? Something that you thought was only negative could have positives within it. HOWEVER, THE POSITIVES OF THESE SITUATIONS DON'T DENY THE DIFFICULTY OF THEM. That is really important to keep in mind. In fact, I will repeat it again. The positives of these situations don't deny the difficulty of them.

Remember to always see and feel both the negatives and positives, but only focus on the positives (you can still be aware of the negatives while focusing on the positive - this is like peripheral vision) when working through challenges. The first part of that sentence will give you clarity instead of clouding you. The second part of that sentence will help you to get through the challenges as hope builds you up while despair tears you down. No matter what you are going through right now, you got this. Lean on God and work with Him. Everything will work out for the best!