At first glance, it would seem that positive thinking and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) have nothing to do with one another. But many of us with ADD develop negative thinking patterns because we become frustrated by our challenges and frequent feelings of being overwhelmed. This negative outlook then makes it even harder for us to manage those challenges and move forward.

Check out 8 ways to start taking control of your life again including time management, goal setting, and record tracking of your daily life. The following tips provide practical suggestions that you can use to help you shift into more positive thinking patterns

1. Take Good Care of You First
   • It’s much easier to be positive when you are eating well, exercising, and getting enough rest.
2. Remind Yourself of the Things You Are Grateful For
   • Stresses and challenges are part of everyday life. Things won’t seem so bad if you are in your happy place. Taking a minute a day to stop and appreciate the good things will make a huge difference. Follow LyfePal on Facebook or join us on our platform for daily inspirational quotes.

Check out this post on how to worry less

3. Avoid Making Assumptions
   • The fear of not being liked or accepted sometimes leads us to assume that we know what others are thinking, and most times our fears are usually not reality. Assuming people are whispering about you secretly at work when you turn your back, then speak up and ask them. Don’t 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 or friend “You’re 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 can’t hold any power over you if you don’t judge them. If you notice yourself having a negative thought, detach from it, witness it, and don’t follow it.
6. 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!
7. Volunteer for an Organization, or Help another Person
   • Everyone feels good after helping. 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.
8. Use Pattern Interrupts to Combat Rumination
   • Rumination is a hyper-focus on something negative. It’s never productive, because it’s not rational or solution-oriented, it’s 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, watch Netflix or turn on some music.

Best Practice

Always practice positive thinking as this allows people especially if you have ADD to focus on your strengths and accomplishments, which in turn will increases your happiness and motivation.

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