Is the glass half full, or half empty? A simple little question really, but how you answer that question may give you valuable insight into your present circumstances in life. Most everyone at some point has been told by their friends or loved ones to "think positive." But why are we told that, and does it really impact our life?

What You Focus On, Expands

The benefits of positive thinking should be clear. When you display a positive and upbeat attitude toward a person or circumstance in your life, you automatically attract a positive response. Granted, this is not 100 percent foolproof, and there are times that despite your positive outlook, situations don't turn out the way you would want. But even at the most difficult times in your life, you will be able to recover more quickly because you are able to see the good in any situation.

Conversely, people who always think negatively tend to attract more negativity into their lives. Even the smallest obstacles become insurmountable roadblocks and can lead to depression and an inability to move forward in life.

Experts have shown that positive thinking goes beyond just making someone "feel good" on a superficial level. Studies have produced conclusive evidence that positive thinking can help prevent sickness and promote healing. This explains the "placebo effect" of sugar pills.

Researchers are also discovering that positive thoughts can help you to get what you really want. This mind secret is often referred to as the law of attraction. This law basically states that if you clearly visualize what you want, think positive about your desires and believe that you have what you want, the universe will bring it to pass.

In reality, this "law" has been around for thousands of years and has it's basis in the Bible. Jesus said, "whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Mark 11:24

Three Tips For Positive Thinking

Positive thoughts come naturally for some people, but for others it may be more difficult. The atmosphere in your home when you were a child plays a major role in how you think. Regardless of your past, you can become a positive thinker. Here is how you can start.

Accept the benefits of positive thinking. You must understand and believe that negative thoughts are detrimental to you and positive thoughts are helpful and healthy for you and for those around you.

Consciously think good thoughts. Make a habit of looking for the good in every situation and then focus your energies on that. Don't be upset when a negative thought creeps up on you. It is going to happen. But don't focus on that negative thought. Look closer at the situation and find the positive. It is there.

Capture the power of positive thinking. Set aside some time for meditation and visualization. Vacate your mind of any negative thought or feeling. We all have a favorite getaway. A place where you feel totally serene and at peace with the world. Pick yours and go there in your mind. Visualize the positive.

The power of positive thinking will change your life forever. Discover the happiness you have been longing for.