The document discusses the power of positive thinking and how to cultivate a positive mindset. It defines positive thinking as looking for solutions, believing in one's abilities, and focusing on the good. Studies show benefits of positive thinking include reduced stress, empowerment, and better health. The Reticular Activating System filters information to focus on what we believe. Effective techniques for positive thinking include affirmations, self-talk, visualization, and surrounding oneself with positive people and influences. The document recommends specific daily practices like imagining a great day ahead to start positively.

1. The Power of Positive
Thinking
Why it’s important and how to positively
change the way you think.
By Rosa Smith-Montanaro

2. What is the Power of Positive Thinking
Positive thinking is choosing to live your life with a
positive attitude.
◦ It’s
 Looking for solutions rather than problems
 Believing in your ability to rise above
 Knowing a positive outcome is possible
 Choosing to focus on the good in others, situations and life
◦ It is not
 A “Pollyanna” mindset
 Ignoring red flags
 Dismissing natural consequences of actions

3. Positive Thinking

4. Why it is important to think positive
 Studies show being positive enables you too:
◦ Reduced stress levels
◦ Feeling empowered
◦ Longer life span
◦ Have better coping skills
◦ Have a healthier body
◦ Less likely to be depressed
◦ Be more resilient
◦ Try new things until they succeed

5. We become what we think about
Thoughts
Emotions
Actions
Reality
Situation

6. The Reticular Activating System (RAS)
“The Reticular Activating System (RAS) is a collection of nerves in your
brainstem that filters out unnecessary information so the essential stuff
makes it through.” www.craigbeck.com/reticular-activating-system
 Millions of things happening
 Brain filters information
 What we believe we look for
 Confirmation bias
◦ Seeking evidence that supports belief

7. Effective Techniques to Think Positive
 Affirmations
 Self-talk
 Visualization
 Interrupting patterns
 Surround with positive
 Listen to music
 Laugh and smile more
 Changing the loop

8. Be Positive with 3 Practices
Magical Morning
• Imagine the great day you are going to have
• Listen to upbeat music that matches your day
• Move your body: motion creates emotion
Affirming Afternoon
• Repeat a positive affirmation throughout the day
• Look for at least 3 things to be grateful for
• Avoid engaging in negative conversations
Empowering Evening
• 3 minutes of deep breathing
• Strive to end the day with people who energize you
• Rephrase self-talk to empowering language
 Magical Morning
 Affirming Afternoon
 Empowering Evening

9. Thank you and remember