Hey it's Paige from Giggly Squad.
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Hey guys, welcome back to Podcast and Chill.
I'm Gwen. And I'm Leo.
So, Leo, have you ever noticed how some people bounce back from anything?
Like, life throws a brick at them and they're like, cool, I'll build a house.
Yep. Meanwhile, I stubbed my toe and need three business days to recover.
I wonder where they get that magic from.
Hogwarts. Ha! Trust me.
No wand is required.
Even us muggles can learn it.
It's all about the power of positivity.
Positivity? That's it?
I was hoping for a potion or at least a motivational playlist. Nope.
Just a simple mindset shift. That sounds promising.
Especially the simple part.
So, guys, today we're exploring the power of positive thinking and, more importantly, the four practical steps you can take to cultivate it in your own life.
I can't wait to learn how positivity can actually turn my hot mess life into something cooler.
That's the goal. Let's jump right in.
But come on, Gwen. Gwen, if positivity were a real superpower, I'd be on the Avengers team by now, probably next to Iron Man.
Only if what you've got is real positivity, not the knockoff kind.
Wait, there's fake positivity?
Not exactly fake, but sometimes it gets toxic.
I'm no Britney Spears, but tell me more.
So toxic positivity is when people force positivity to the point it dismisses or invalidates real emotions.
Like how? Like when someone's grieving and you hit them with a, just be happy.
Or, look on the bright side, it's like handing them a glittery band -aid for a broken heart.
Oh yeah, that sounds more annoying than helpful.
I know, right? True positivity isn't about pretending everything's fine or ignoring pain.
So what is true positivity then?
It's about facing challenges honestly, but choosing to focus on solutions, growth, and hope instead of just spiraling into doom.
Okay, that hits different.
Like, really different.
And it matters. Especially in today's world where everything moves a million miles a minute, and stress is basically the new normal.
No kidding. Between the news, social media, and adulting in general, it's way too easy to feel overwhelmed.
I'm overwhelmed. I could seriously use a pep talk.
Oh, positivity is way more than just a pep talk.
It can actually change your whole life.
For real? For real.
Being positive can boost your physical health, mental well -being, relationships, and even how long you live.
Okay, wow. Let's start with the body, then.
How does being positive help physically?
First, positivity strengthens your immune system.
How's that even possible?
When you think positively, your body produces fewer stress hormones.
So less stress means fewer sick days?
I'm sold. Plus, get this, being grateful, which is a huge part of positive thinking, actually helps you sleep better.
How do you even know that?
Not just me saying it, but Robert Emmons, one of the top researchers on gratitude, found that people who practice it regularly sleep longer and better.
But how does that even work?
When you focus on the good stuff in your life, it calms your stress levels, balances brain chemistry, and basically creates the perfect mental environment for solid, peaceful sleep.
So you're saying if I just start being more thankful, I'll knock out faster and sleep like a baby?
Pretty much, yeah. Man, positivity sounds like the ultimate sidekick.
Totally. And the benefits don't stop there.
A better immune system and better sleep means fewer physical symptoms too.
Oh right, they're all connected.
But the perks go beyond just physical health.
Positivity helps your mental game too.
Let me guess, less stress hormone stuff?
You got it. Staying positive keeps cortisol levels lower.
In fact, Emmons also found that positivity can boost your happiness by around 25%.
That's such a huge jump.
Yep, positive thinking is like strength training for your brain.
It helps you bounce back quicker.
That explains why some people seem to recover from setbacks way faster than others.
And they're often better at building strong connections too.
Positive people just tend to vibe better with others.
I don't doubt that.
I mean, look at Tom Hanks.
He's got that friendly down -to -earth energy.
You can't help but like him.
Right? Fans always say how funny and kind he is in person.
Yeah. People are drawn to him.
He's one of the biggest stars in Hollywood, but you don't feel intimidated by him.
Same with Michelle Obama.
Even though she is a former first lady, she comes off super warm and approachable.
Her messages are always about hope, strength, and lifting people up.
I love her. She just makes people feel inspired and like they can actually do something meaningful.
Right? and through her initiatives like Let's Move and Reach Higher, she really showed how positive energy can spark real change and connection.
So positivity attracts people, like bees to honey, huh?
You nailed it. Okay, what else can this positive power do?
Believe it or not, it boosts productivity at work and in learning.
So just being in a good mood helps me perform better?
Yep. Simple, but true.
From a brain science perspective, your mind works best when it's in a positive state.
So I'm sharper and more analytical when I'm happy.
For sure. A happy brain is also more open to ideas, and better at solving problems. Basically, I get more creative?
That's exactly it. Oh, I've also noticed I remember things better when I'm not stressed.
That makes sense. Stress messes with your memory.
So when you're relaxed and in a good mindset, your brain retains info more easily.
Dang, this positivity thing just keeps on giving.
It really does. One more perk, it can actually help you live longer.
Oh, you mentioned that earlier.
But how? A study shows that the most optimistic people live 11 to 15 % longer than the least optimistic ones.
That's wild. So staying positive literally adds years to your life?
Yep. And makes those years healthier, too.
Wait. How does that even connect?
It's all about stress.
Negative thinking ramps up stress, which floods your body with cortisol.
What happens next? Over time, that stress can cause inflammation and even speed up aging on a cellular level.
What's positivity's role in this, though?
Positivity. It acts like a shield.
It lowers stress and inflammation so your body and brain stay healthier longer.
So basically, being positive is like a fountain of youth for your brain?
Nice analogy. And because it keeps your stress down and your immune system strong, it also lowers your risk of all those age -related diseases.
Wow. So staying positive isn't just good in the moment.
It helps in the long run, too.
Yep. Long -term benefits for sure.
Okay, I'm in. How do I actually stay positive though?
I thought you were already the most upbeat person I know.
Honestly, I try. But I don't think I'm doing it right.
It's hard to stay positive all the time.
Totally understandable, Leo.
The good news is positivity is a skill you can train.
For real? Yeah. Like going to the gym, but for your mindset.
I've got a simple four -step plan for building that muscle.
Okay, I'm all ears.
Hit me with step one.
Step one is all about your inner dialogue.
Inner dialogue? You mean like that voice in my head?
Yes. We all get negative thoughts like, I'm not good enough, or I always mess up.
The first thing is to catch those patterns.
Oh, I'm a pro at beating myself up sometimes.
Negative thoughts are my middle name.
You're not alone. But there's a little mental trick you can use.
It's called the S -T -O -P method.
Stop? Like just stop thinking?
Kind of. It stands for stop what you're doing, take a deep breath, observe your feelings and thoughts, and proceed with a positive or constructive thought.
Sounds simple, but how does that work in real life?
Let's say you're thinking, ugh, I suck at my job.
You catch that thought and...
Stop myself, take a breath, notice I'm spiraling.
And then flip it into something more helpful, like I'm learning and getting better every day.
So it's like coaching yourself to calm down and see things from a better angle.
That's my point. And over time, your brain actually gets better at choosing the positive route automatically.
Love that. What's step two?
Practicing gratitude.
After all the stuff you said earlier about gratitude, I'm already sold.
How do I do it? Easiest way?
Keep a gratitude journal.
Every day, write down three good things that happened.
Does things like, I had an amazing sandwich count?
Totally. It can be anything small or big.
You can also write thank you letters to people who've made a difference in your life.
But what if I get laid off?
Am I supposed to be grateful for that?
If that ever happens, think of it as a chance to learn something new or even land a better job.
Wow, you're like the Gratitude Jedi or something.
Honestly, it's easier than it sounds.
It's not about pretending things are great, but finding opportunity in the chaos.
Just ask yourself, what good could come out of this?
So it's not about fake smiles.
It's about being real but staying hopeful.
You're right. Gratitude trains your brain to focus on the good, even when things are tough.
Got it. So what's step 3?
Step three is all about protecting your energy and building strong, positive relationships.
Easier said than done when the world feels so chaotic.
I get it. But even little things make a big difference.
Like what? Give me something small and doable.
Give someone a genuine compliment.
Really listen when they talk.
Offer help when you can.
That kind of stuff creates a ripple effect.
Like, I tell my coworker I like their haircut and actually mean it?
Totally. That's how you spread good energy.
And it matters who you surround yourself with, too.
Build a positive circle of friends who lift you up.
Yeah, I guess choosing friends who drag you down isn't great for mental health.
Not great at all. Setting boundaries with negative influences is crucial.
Especially with people who drain your energy.
Protecting your mental space is vital.
I'll keep this in mind.
Also, joining groups or communities that share your values creates a support network like book clubs or hobby groups yes any place where encouragement and positivity thrive interesting i'm ready for the last step step four is maintaining positivity daily okay how do i actually do that start with a simple morning routine before you grab your phone think of a few things you're grateful for man i'm guilty of scrolling through bad news first thing Yeah, that's a rough way to start the day.
Be mindful of what you take in, news, social media, and conversations.
Filter out the negativity.
So instead of doom -scrolling, I could check the weather and be thankful, whether it's sunny or pouring.
Yes, and maybe unfollow those drama accounts tonight, too.
That one hurts, but fine.
I'll do it. Another thing is to try flipping your perspective.
See problems as opportunities to grow.
Like that layoff scenario, turning it into a fresh start.
Yep. And don't forget to create a positive space around you.
Like physically? Yep.
Add things that inspire you, plants, music, or quotes.
Make your home or workspace somewhere you want to be.
I've been meaning to put my favorite posters back up.
Time to do it. That's the spirit, Leo Ooh, that was a lot of positivity power today, huh Gwen?
For sure But you know me Before we wrap up I think we should break down some key words Make sure everyone's got them in their pocket Love that Let's do it First up, positivity Positivity Having a hopeful and happy way of thinking about life Like when your day starts bad But you choose to focus on what's still good Exactly next one toxic positivity Oof big one that's when someone forces fake happy thoughts and ignores real feelings Like telling a sad friend to just cheer up instead of listening to them right now immune system Immune system your body's way of fighting sickness so when you stay positive
your immune system actually works better see See?
Positivity really helps your health.
What's next? Gratitude.
One of my favorites.
Feeling thankful for good things in your life.
Like writing down, I'm thankful for my dog and this amazing coffee.
Yes. Now, let's do Inner Dialogue.
Inner Dialogue. That little voice in your head, your own thoughts.
Sometimes it says, I can't do this.
But we can flip it to, I'm learning.
Last one. Energy Drain.
Energy drain. Something that makes you feel tired or low on energy.
Like scrolling bad news first thing in the morning.
Big energy drain. Exactly.
Better to start the day with gratitude instead.
All right, Gwen. How about a quick quiz for today?
I'm ready. Let's see how much we remember.
First question. What happens to your body when you think more positively?
It lowers stress, boosts your immune system, and helps you sleep better.
Right on. That's one big reason to practice positive thinking.
Second question, what is toxic positivity?
It's when people force fake happy thoughts and ignore real feelings.
Exactly. And it's not helpful.
True positivity is honest. Last one, what's one simple habit to help your brain stay positive?
Keeping a gratitude journal.
Write three good things every day.
Bingo! Small steps like this really help build a positive mindset.
Now it's your turn.
What's one good thing that happened to you today?
Write it in the comments!
And do you already keep a gratitude journal?
Or have you tried the S -T -O -P method?
Share with us below.
And hey, how do you like to spread good vibes to people around you?
We'd love to know! You know what, Gwen?
With all the health perks, social wins, and skill boosts, staying positive really seems like the way to go.
I know, right? Especially when you've got that simple four -step plan to build your positivity muscle.
So what's the challenge for our listeners?
How can they actually start practicing staying positive right now?
Super easy. For days one and two, start a gratitude journal.
Just jot down three good things that happen each day.
Nice! What about days three and four?
That's when you focus on positive self -talk.
Use the STOP method whenever those negative thoughts sneak in.
I like that. And days five and six?
Time to spread the good vibes.
Compliment someone, really listen to a friend, or lend a hand where you can.
Love it! So what's the plan for day seven?
Take a moment to reflect on how far you've come.
Notice how your mood, thoughts, and relationships might have shifted.
That sounds totally doable.
Exactly. And hey, if you enjoyed this episode, share it with friends or anyone who could use a little positivity boost. Thanks for hanging out with us.
Catch you next time on Podcast and Chill.
Hey it's Paige from Giggly Squad.
Real talk, if there's one store that I absolutely love walking around it's Sephora.
It's my total guilty pleasure.
They have amazing brands that other people don't have and I find something great every time I walk in and there's literally one down the street from me so I do that a lot.
It's so fun to shop in the store and online and the products are just too good.
No regrets ever. For example, one of my favorite beauty brands is Makeup by Mario who just launched his new lip gloss that I absolutely love.
So the next time you're in the market for great beauty, shop all the hottest products and brands only at Sephora.
Be adventurous in the sun. Be protected in the sun. Be confident in the sun. Be fearless in the sun with Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen.
As experts in mineral sunscreens for nearly 30 years, we've earned awards for our high quality products and the trust of healthcare professionals.
Embrace every moment in the sun with your family and Blue Lizard by your side.
Be fearless in the sun. Shop Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen now on Amazon .com.
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