Staying positive has been tough in the past year. Since the pandemic began, three times as many American adults have reported cases of anxiety compared with 2019. Thankfully, here are three ways to improve your relationship with the person in the mirror.
Engage in Smarter Self-talk
In his lab at the University of Michigan, Kross asks subjects to talk to themselves in the second person, and to use their own name. Instead of saying, "I'm so nervous about this meeting on Tuesday," say,"(Your name), you seem pretty nervous about this meeting." Kross's research shows that this simple change in language gets people into problem-solving mode quicker.
Repeat a Task You're Good At
When Canadian psychologist Patrick Keelan's helping people with low self-respect, he suggests they regularly take part in activities that use or improve their skills. According to a 14-year study of 7,000 volunteers, you can increase your self-respect at every age if you know you can do well in what you are interested in.
Look back
While some research suggests happiness increases with age, studies also suggest that self-respect reaches the highest point at age 60, then reduces. In a 2015 study from Iran, a group of men who lost their wives 60 and over shared memories of the events and life lessons that had shaped their lives. This "encouraged a sense of identity（身份）and a positive contribution to the next generation," the researchers reported. So, look back by looking through a photo album with loved ones or playing music that reminds you of meaningful moments.
