Staying positive isn’t something that just happens overnight. It’s more like a muscle you build over time with practice, habits, and small mindset shifts. Life isn’t always smooth sailing, and no one can magically flip a switch and feel upbeat every single day.
The good news? Positivity can absolutely be cultivated. With the right approach, you can train your mind to handle challenges more calmly, bounce back from setbacks, and even spot opportunities in the middle of tough moments.
That’s exactly what this post is about. Below, you’ll discover how to be a positive person in 21 ways and bring positivity into your everyday life, helping you move through hard times with confidence while becoming the best version of yourself.
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Healthy Positivity vs. Toxic Positivity
Before we jump in, let’s get one thing straight: being positive doesn’t mean ignoring reality or pretending everything’s fine when it’s not.
There’s a big difference between toxic positivity and healthy positivity. Toxic positivity is all about plastering on a smile and pretending nothing’s wrong, rejecting uncomfortable emotions or struggles. On the surface, it might look cheerful, but inside it can actually be harmful. It tells you that feeling sad, stressed, or angry is somehow “wrong.”
Healthy positivity, on the other hand, is balanced. It’s about noticing what’s going well, practicing gratitude, accepting that negative emotions are part of life, and approaching problems with resilience and hope.
When things go wrong, a truly positive mindset doesn’t shove feelings aside. It acknowledges them, works through them, and then gently guides your perspective back toward something uplifting.
That’s the kind of positivity we’re aiming for! The kind that strengthens you, not the kind that glosses over reality.
How to Be a Positive Person
Now that we’re clear on the difference, let’s jump into how to be a positive person today in 21 ways!
1) Smile More
Seriously, don’t underestimate this one. A smile can instantly lift your mood, even if you don’t feel like it at first. Smile at a stranger, a friend, or just yourself in the mirror; trust me, it works.
You’ll release those feel-good endorphins, and bonus: smiles are contagious. You never know, you might brighten someone else’s day just by sharing yours.
2) Focus on Personal Growth
Positivity starts from within. When you invest time in yourself, like learning new things, reflecting on your goals, or practicing self-love, you naturally become more resilient and optimistic.
Think of it as nourishing your mind and soul, not just your body. Every small step forward makes you feel capable and stronger.
3) Keep a Journal
Journaling is like having a friend who always listens. It gives you a safe space to get your thoughts out, process emotions, and notice patterns in your life.
Over time, journaling helps you see your progress, celebrate small wins, and let go of the thoughts that weigh you down.
4) Avoid Negative Self-Talk
The way we talk to ourselves matters, so be kind. You wouldn’t berate a friend for feeling down or struggling, right? Treat yourself with the same compassion. Shift your inner dialogue from criticism to encouragement.
Even small reminders like “I’m doing my best” can make a huge difference.
5) Create a Positive Mantra
Some days, life feels heavy. That’s when a personal mantra comes in handy. Whether it’s a favorite quote, a short phrase like “This too shall pass,” or a Bible verse, repeating it grounds you and reminds you that challenges are temporary. Keep it close; say it in the morning, at your desk, or before bed.
6) Start Your Day Right
Mornings are powerful, because they set the tone for everything. Find little rituals that make you feel centered, whether it’s stretching, journaling, meditating, or savoring a warm cup of coffee without distractions. Even ten minutes of intentional calm can ripple positivity through the rest of your day.
7) Practice Gratitude
Gratitude is a cornerstone of positivity. Instead of focusing on what’s missing, take time each day to appreciate what you do have, like your health, loved ones, a home, or even small daily joys.
These are all things we often take for granted, yet they are essential for a good and happy life.
Realizing what you have makes you a more understanding and positive person towards others.
Gratitude opens your heart, makes you more patient, and helps you see life’s beauty, even on tough days.
8) Surround Yourself with Positive People
The people around you shape your energy. Surround yourself with supportive, uplifting individuals who encourage your growth. Limit time with those who constantly complain or bring negativity.
Hear me out, you deserve to be around people who lift you higher because you are worth it!
9) Meditate or Pray
Whether through meditation or prayer, carving out time for stillness helps you connect with yourself and someone greater. It lowers stress, brings peace, and helps you handle life’s challenges with clarity and calmness.
I find talking to God is one of the best ways to always stay positive.
10) Spread Kindness
Acts of kindness aren’t just for others, they lift you, too. Hold the door, leave a compliment, smile at a stranger, or simply listen with empathy. Small gestures create ripples of positivity, making the world, (and your day of course) a little brighter.
11) Reduce Stress Where You Can
Stress is part of life, but how you manage it matters. Notice what’s within your control and what isn’t. Take breaks, breathe, organize your schedule, or practice small self-care rituals. Even tiny steps toward calm can shift your mindset from frantic to focused.
12) Take Care of Your Emotions
This is the point many of us don’t take into account. Positivity doesn’t mean ignoring negative feelings. It means acknowledging them, learning from them, and then gently shifting back to a healthier state of mind. Remember, emotions are teachers, not enemies.
13) Move Your Body
Movement is magic for mood, trust me in that. Exercise releases endorphins, relieves tension, and boosts confidence. You don’t need a full gym routine! Try a short walk, stretch, or dance in your living room. Your body will thank you, and your mind will feel lighter.
14) Get Outside and Enjoy Nature
Nature has a special way of grounding us. Fresh air, greenery, and sunshine can calm the mind and lift the soul. Take a walk, sit under a tree, or watch a sunset. Trust me when I say that you’ll feel more peaceful and present! After I take a walk in nature, I instantly feel calmer, peaceful, and more positive about life!
15) Build Self-Esteem
How to be a positive person without mentioning this crucial point?
Believe in yourself. Stop comparing your journey to others. Celebrate small victories, acknowledge your strengths, and practice self-care. Confidence and positivity grow hand-in-hand, and the more you value yourself, the more it radiates outward.
16) Prioritize Sleep
Good sleep is essential for a healthy, positive mindset. Without it, stress feels heavier and joy feels harder to grasp. Create a calming nighttime routine, listen to your body, and give yourself the rest you need.
So do it like me; aim for at least 6-8 hours of sleep a night and you are good to go!
17) Do What You Love
Life truly feels brighter when you carve out time for activities that bring you joy. Whether it’s painting, dancing around your living room, cooking your favorite meal, reading a book that transports you to another world, or even trying something completely new, these moments are essential for your well-being. Fun isn’t just a nice-to-have, but a vital part of maintaining a positive mindset and staying motivated.
18) Focus on the Good
Challenges are inevitable, but your perspective makes all the difference. Train yourself to notice the silver linings, the lessons, or the opportunities within obstacles. Focusing on the good makes you more resilient and hopeful.
19) Celebrate Life
Big milestones are exciting, but don’t forget the little moments. Your morning coffee, a text from a friend, a sunny day—these count. Celebrating life daily cultivates joy and makes positivity a habit, not a rare occurrence.
20) Live a Healthy Lifestyle
Your body and mind are deeply connected. When you eat nourishing foods, move your body, get enough rest, and take care of your mental health, everything else in life feels a little easier. Feeling physically strong and energized naturally boosts your mood, sharpens your focus, and makes it easier to approach challenges with optimism. Small choices, like drinking enough water, taking a short walk, or getting a good night’s sleep, can have a big impact on how positive and resilient you feel each day.
21) Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness helps you stop dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. By being fully present, you notice life’s small joys and let go of unnecessary stress.
If you think about the past or the future, you will never be able to savor the present and fully experience the moment.
The more mindful you are, the easier it becomes to choose positivity.
Wrap up
So how to be a positive person? Positivity is a journey, not a destination. With these 21 simple ways, you’ll gradually train your mind to look for the good, even when life feels tough.
Start small, be patient with yourself, and remember, it’s the little daily choices that create a brighter, more joyful you.
