How to Become a Positive Thinker

Some people seem to be born with positive attitudes. Fortunately, those not so lucky can learn to be positive thinkers and gain self-confidence.

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By Brian H. Robb

For almost a century, mothers have read the inspiring story of “The Little Engine That Could” to their children. Mothers may not realize the powerful message of confidence and willpower illustrated by the little blue engine struggling to climb a mountain and deliver a train filled with toys for the children on the other side. But their children do, turning the phrase “I think I can” into a personal mantra. A Methodist clergyman reinforced a similar theme in his best-selling “The Power of Positive Thinking”, which was published in 1952 and is still popular today. Today, the message of positivity is being carried around the world by such luminaries as a life coach and author Tony Robbins and his message of success.

Does Positive Thinking Work?

Though science has yet to find the exact link between positivity and the human brain, study after study suggests a definite cause and effect. Johns Hopkins Medicine asserts that a positive attitude improves health outcomes and life satisfaction generally. More importantly, their research proves that each of us has the power to become more confident and positive in our lives.

Positive thinking changes the brain’s chemistry by producing serotonin and dopamine (“feel good” hormones) in neurons originating in the middle of the brainstem. In turn, they affect genetic markers and can change brain cells. The change of genetic traits is a catalyst for our well-being and future generations. Positive thinking is also associated with an increase in cells that boost your immune system. Psychologist Daniel Goleman asserts that the brain’s reaction to positivity is “enhanced creative thinking, cognitive flexibility, faster processing, and a widened span of attention.”

Becoming a Positive Thinker

Some people seem to be born with positive attitudes. Fortunately, those not so lucky can learn to be positive thinkers and gain self-confidence. There are hundreds, possibly thousands, of self-help practitioners who have programs that can improve one’s self-image and positivity. Developing a positive attitude is typically a process of discarding and replacing old habits of negativity with confidence. While some may be hard to break, no habit is too embedded to be changed.