3 tactics to be more at ease with life –

Thinking positive can influence – and a lot – your life. A proof of this was the finding that researchers from Harvard University, in the United States, made. They found, nothing less, that optimistic women have a lower risk of developing a range of cancers, infections and heart disease. So, for you to get into this wave of positivism and boost your health, we talked to two experts and put together different tips that you can put into practice.

Trace realistic goals

Much of the negativism that surrounds us has to do with frustrated expectations. Therefore, the ideal is to think with your feet on the ground and plan dreams that are within your reach. By setting realistic, short-term goals, you are able to recognize your own success along the way. “A goal achieved brings with it more motivation, more will and, consequently, more positive thoughts”, explains Marilena Bigoto, a psychologist specialist in human development at the Elaborated Space for Development and Essence of Being, in São Paulo.

Read more: 8 secrets to being a more optimistic person

Think positive at least three times a day

Our way of thinking is defined during childhood and adolescence. That is, when we become adults we end up automatically following the same pattern – and our natural tendency is to focus on the negative (this goes back to the beginning, when man got used to preparing for the worst in order to increase his chances of survival).

To break this cycle you need to institute a new habit and repeat it over and over again. So take time out of the day to reflect on the good things that are happening to you. “The habit of thinking daily about small attitudes that worked is capable of pushing us to more achievements”, says Yuri Busin, psychologist at the Mental Health Care Center – Equilíbrio, in São Paulo. Repeat between 3 and 6 times a day to break the negative cycle.

Understand: Positive thinking can change the world for the better

diversify your routine

Our brains are wired to appreciate life’s rewards. But if these rewards begin to play a routine role, our gray matter stops releasing dopamine (a substance linked to motivation) in these situations. The solution? Explore different experiences. “Human beings are complex and enjoy different experiences. Allow yourself, vibrate, realize and conquer different forms of pleasure. When we start to value different things, colors and pleasures, we see life in a positive and pleasant way”, teaches Marilena.