Keep Those Positive Vibes Alive

It might be argued that positive thinking and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) have nothing to do
with one another. But when viewed in depth ADD contributes to bouts of negative thinking when
feeling frustrated by challenges and frequent sensations of being overwhelmed. This negative
stance then makes it even harder for us to manage those challenges and stifle the drive to move
forward.

Practicing positive thinking allows people with ADD to focus on their strengths and accomplishments,
which increases contentment and motivation. This, in turn, allows us to spend more time making
progress, and less time feeling down and stuck. The following tips provide practical suggestions that
you can use to help you shift into more positive thinking patterns and inspire an impetus to thrive:

1. Take Good Care of Yourself

It is easier to stay in a positive frame of mind when you are eating well, exercising, and getting
enough rest.

2. Take Occasions to Remind Yourself of the Things You Are Grateful For

Stresses and challenges do not appear quite as bad when you are constantly reminding yourself of the
things that are right in life. When you take time each day to focus and reflect upon the good things you
appreciate will make a huge difference in your outlook on life and living.

3. Look for the Proof Instead of Making Assumptions

A fear of not being liked or accepted sometimes leads us to assume that we know what others are
thinking, but our fears are usually not reality. Be assertive, if you have a fear that a friend or family member's
bad mood is due to something you did, or that your co-workers are secretly gossiping about you when you
turn your back, speak up and ask them. Do not waste time worrying that you did something wrong unless
you have proof that there is something to worry about.

4. Refrain from Using Absolutes

Have you ever told a partner "You are ALWAYS late!" or complained to a friend "You NEVER call me!"?
Thinking and speaking in absolutes like 'always' and 'never' makes the situation seem worse than it is,
and programs your brain into believing that certain people are incapable of delivering.

5. Detach From Negative Thoughts

Your thoughts cannot hold any power over you if you do not judge them. If you notice yourself having a
negative thought, detach from it, witness it, and do not follow it.

6. Squash the "ANTs"

In his book "Change Your Brain, Change Your Life," Dr. Daniel Amen talks about "ANTs" - Automatic
Negative Thoughts. These are the bad thoughts that are usually reactionary, like "Those people are
laughing, they must be talking about me," or "The boss wants to see me? It must be bad!" When you
notice these thoughts, realize that they are nothing more than ANTs and squash them!

7. Practice Loving Interaction with Your Friends and Family

You do not have to be an expert to know the benefits of a good hug. Positive physical contact with friends,
loved ones, and even pets, is an instant pick-me-up. One research study on this subject had a waitress
touch some of her customers on the arm as she handed them their checks. She received higher tips from
these customers than from the ones she did not touch!

8. Increase Your Social Activity

By increasing social activity, you decrease loneliness. Surround yourself with healthy, happy people, and
their positive energy will affect you in a positive way!

9. Volunteer for an Organization, or Help another Person

Everyone feels good after being a help to others. You can volunteer your time, your money, or your resources.
The more positive energy you put out into the world, the more you will receive in return.

10. Use Pattern Interrupts to Combat Adverse Ponderings

If you find yourself ruminating, a great way to stop it is to interrupt the pattern and force yourself to do something
completely different. Rumination is like hyper-focus on something negative. It is never productive, because it is
not rational or solution-oriented, it is just excessive worry. Try changing your physical environment - go for a
walk or sit outside. You could also call a friend, pick up a book, or turn on some music.