Develop a positive mindset
I am currently fascinated by the power of a positive mindset. Having recently completed Dr Chris Johnstone’s Positive psychology course, I have been inspired to bring an element of positive psychology into my coaching work.
Shawn Achor, a leader in the world of positive psychology, is a fascinating speaker (see here ) and argues that by creating and nurturing a positive way of thinking and behaving withing organisations and businesses, productivity increases and a culture of wellbeing is developed. How wonderful, I hear you say – so how is this done?
There are many ways of encouraging a shift in the way people behave and think, and I am always in favour of simple strategies that everyone can grasp and put into practice. This is not only for organisations – it’s something I’m working on with individuals also – as most of us would love to benefit from an extra dose of wellbeing & positivity.
Shawn Achor suggests the following simple steps. He argues they must be done for 21 days at the very least, as this is how long it takes for a new action to become a habit or routine, and for it to be embedded in your life.
He suggests choosing just one of the following – but as they are all simple and short, I think most people can take on a couple more (if not all!)
- Jot down three things are grateful for.
- Write a positive message to someone in your social support network – or to a work colleague.
- Meditate desk for two minutes, focusing on your breathing – just close your eyes and be calm.
- Exercise for 10 minutes.
- Take two minutes to describe in a journal the most meaningful experience of the past 24 hours.
Give it a go – I’d love to hear what you think.
Read another useful article on positive thinking and its power on well being and health here.
You can read more here in the Harvard Business Review. http://hbr.org/2012/01/positive-intelligence/ar/1
07785 996917 info@catrinmacdonnell.co.uk
