10 Quick Ways to Become More Positive

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. Whether it’s a tough day at work, a disagreement with a loved one, or just a case of the blues, our moods can dip without warning.

But the good news? You don’t have to stay stuck. There are simple, quick

ways to lift your spirits and move into a more positive state of mind, and many can be done in just a few minutes. Here are ten uplifting practices you can try today:

1. Take a Deep Breath — Then a Few More

It sounds simple, but conscious breathing is one of the fastest ways to calm your nervous system. Try inhaling slowly for a count of four, holding for four, and exhaling for four. Just three rounds can ground you and help reset your emotional state. There are many other helpful breathing methods as well.

2. Go Outside

Fresh air and natural light have an incredible power to boost your mood. Step outside for even five minutes. Look up at the sky, listen to the birds, or feel the breeze. Nature is a natural antidepressant.

3. Move Your Body

Movement, no matter how small, can be magic. Stretch. Dance to a favourite song. Walk around the block. Physical activity releases endorphins, your brain’s feel-good chemicals, and helps clear mental fog.

4. Practice Gratitude

Grab a notebook or just pause and think of three things you're grateful for, big or small. Focusing on what’s going well can shift your mindset from lack to abundance in a matter of moments. It’s the quickest way I know to shift your mood and one of my earlier blogs shows how it can improve your physical and mental health and your relationships.

5. Connect with Someone

Reach out to a friend, text a loved one, or even share a smile with a stranger. Positive social interaction, no matter how brief, reminds us we’re not alone and sparks a sense of belonging.

6. Nourish yourself

Sometimes, low mood is simply a signal from your body. Drink a glass of water. Eat a healthy snack. Fuelling yourself well can improve your energy, focus, and overall outlook.

7. Acknowledge your emotions and feelings

If you are feeling upset, acknowledge it, breathe into it and release it. Listen to what your emotions are telling you. Remember this too will pass.

8. Listen to Uplifting Music or watch some comedy

Create a playlist of songs that lift you up. Music is one of the quickest emotional resets out there. Sing along, hum, or just let the melody wash over you. I love watching comedy clips on YouTube – sometimes laughter is the best medicine.

9. Do One Small Thing

When everything feels overwhelming, choose one small task and complete it. It could be making your bed, writing a to-do list, or replying to an email. A little momentum creates a sense of accomplishment and control.

10. Be Kind to Yourself

Above all, treat yourself with the same compassion you’d offer a friend. You don’t need to be perfect or productive to be worthy. Talk to yourself gently and remind yourself: “This moment will pass.”

Final Thoughts

Your mood doesn’t define you or your day and you always have the power to shift it. These actions may seem small. But the message they carry is that you are not powerless. You can choose, moment by moment, to bring light into your own life.

Start with one idea. See how it feels. And remember, even on the toughest days, you’re only one thought, breath, or step away from a brighter state of mind.

And if you need something more intensive, I have a wide range of approaches that might be just what you’re looking for to help you make that shift.