Pay less attention to negative thoughts.
Ever found yourself lost in a loop of worry and concern? That’s called rumination, which is the process of continually thinking about the same dark scenario. Learning to recognize those thoughts for what they are—just thoughts—can aid you in pulling yourself together.
Be kind to yourself.
Cut yourself some slack when something crappy—losing a job, undergoing a break up, or experiencing trauma—happens in your life. “These situations are painful. You’re most likely not going to feel perky and peppy about it all, and that’s okay,” Eckler says. Trying to squash the anxiety or grief will only intensify those feelings.
Change your language.
Words made a big difference in how you feel and in the way others perceive you. One of the biggest ways we transfer stress is verbally. So jump-starting a conversation with a positive statement can set the tone in a different place.
For example, when someone at work asks how you are, instead of saying, “I’m so stressed and busy!” try something light-hearted like, “I just had the best sandwich for lunch. How’s your day going?” This can naturally lead the conversation—and your mind—to a more positive place.
