Thinking and Feeling Positively

Thinking and feeling positively

Here at True Balance Karate in Downers Grove, Illinois, we have a social-emotional learning program called True Character.

I’m Master H, the owner and chief instructor here at the studio. I have two master’s degrees in education, and we’ve developed this curriculum to meet the needs of our youngest student, who’s three or four, and our oldest student, who is 86.

Positive Self-Talk

This month, we are talking about having a positive attitude. I look for the good everywhere.

Last week, we defined a positive attitude, discussing how you’re thinking, how you’re feeling, what it looks like, but also recognizing the negative side of things. Today, we’re talking about thinking positively and feeling positively.

Thinking positively comes down to having a different vocabulary. Last week, I briefly touched on the power of the word “yet.” Knowing that you are still learning, still growing, and working on something gives you the reminder that you will get there at some point. “Yet” gives you that option to remind yourself: I haven’t figured this out yet. I’m working on this. I am getting stronger. I can ask questions.

We are always trying to be better versions of ourselves every day. Using language that reinforces this mindset, such as “I’m still learning this,” is a great way to maintain a positive attitude. It reminds us that we are not supposed to know everything. We all have strengths and weaknesses. When we find our weaknesses, we can either dwell on them or seek help, ask questions, and grow.

Positive Mindset

To maintain a positive attitude, it helps to ask: Who is the expert I can go to? Who can I talk to? Challenges are opportunities. No one grows in their comfort zone. If you’re feeling comfortable, you’re just treading water. When things feel hard, it’s a chance to expand yourself—your thought process, your skills, and your abilities.

Now, when it comes to thinking positively with our feelings, we all have moments of frustration. Maybe your computer stops working, you lose a file, you’re bombarded with questions, and life feels chaotic. How do you maintain a positive attitude then?

My best advice is to press pause for a moment. Take a deep breath. Ask yourself: What will help me feel positive right now?

Is it a dance party to release frustrations? A run to get your body moving? Lifting weights? Exercise is a great way to boost your mood. Maybe journaling helps—writing out negative emotions, then tearing up the paper or even burning it, symbolizing letting go of negativity.

Positive Strategies

It’s about finding ways to maintain positivity while acknowledging that negative feelings do happen. But we don’t have to dwell in them. We can control our mindset and how we view situations so that our thoughts and feelings shift to a more positive light.

We are learning and growing. We haven’t figured it all out yet, but we’re asking the right questions and taking positive actions. Even small things—like wearing your favorite sweatshirt—can provide a little boost of positivity.

Next week, we’ll talk about actions and how taking positive actions supports our thoughts and feelings. It all ties together to create a more positive outlook on life.

Thanks, and I’ll see you on the mat!

True Balance Karate was founded in 2012 by Master Sue and Paul Helsdon.

We offer kids karate lessons for pre-school children ages 3-6 and elementary age kids ages 7 and up. These lessons are designed to develop the critical building blocks kids need — specialized for their age group — for school excellence and later success in life.

Our adult martial arts training is a complete adult fitness and conditioning program for adults who want to lose weight, get (and stay) in shape, or learn self-defense in a supportive environment.

Instructors can answer questions or be contacted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 630-663-2000. You can also contact us here. True Balance Karate is at 406 Ogden Ave Downers Grove Illinois, 60515 (next to CVS) Check out our Facebook!