Dr. Christina Rahm: Highlighting the “Power of Positive Thinking”

As the year draws to a close, I again find December to be a month of reflection. My reflections are not only based on this past year, but also creative thoughts and positive images come to my mind in which I aspire for the future. It is as if one door is slowly closing, and another opening to a wide-open ‘field of dreams,’ as portrayed in the movie, for growth, inspiration, ingenuity, and overall positive thinking.

We have all heard the term, the ‘power of positive thinking.’ I do not believe the cliché can ever be overused, but do we really know what the phrase means, and how it can be used in our psychological development?

The power of positive thinking

The ‘power of positive thinking’ refers to the idea that by maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on optimistic thoughts, one can significantly influence their life to be led in a more positive, productive, and beneficial fashion. Positive thinking clearly leads to more productive outcomes and increased resilience in the face of challenges. To put it in more simplistic terms, creating and maintaining a positive outlook enhances one’s ability to achieve goals and overcome obstacles.

According to Psychology Today, “By thinking positively, one’s thoughts become enhanced with mental resilience which improves mental well-being,”

Similarly, when you have positive thoughts, your brain releases chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin, which are associated with feelings of pleasure and reward, creating a “happy” state in the brain. Those chemicals can also help decrease cortisol levels typically brought on by stress.

Moreover, having daily, positive, psychological thoughts helps foster happiness. According to Harvard Health, a positive outlook, “Helps people capitalize on their strengths, heightens their gratitude and awareness, and helps develop the wisdom needed to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.”

I have just returned from an inspirational trip to Rome, Italy, where I had the privilege of speaking at the World Changers Summit in Vatican City. It was an amazingly positive experience to stand among global leaders and innovators, all of us united in our commitment to shaping the future of health and wellness.

After this experience, I spent Thanksgiving in my hometown of Dexter, Missouri, a place that always reminds me of what is important in life. Surrounded by family and nature, I was reminded of the simple joys and deep bonds that make us family.

Mind over matter

These experiences are examples of mind over matter, and the powerful aspect of positive thinking. My life is not perfect. I have had to overcome a myriad of obstacles and transitions throughout life. But my strength and resilience have always come from a place of ‘positive thinking’ while integrating those positive thought processes into daily life.

As a takeaway from my extensive international travels this past year, and a special time with my family over Thanksgiving, I am thinking about all the positive initiatives I want to take to better my personal health and wellbeing. Whether it is riding my bike, taking longer walks, or carving out more “me time” by reading, painting and even journaling positive thoughts and blessings each day, I know I will be better prepared to face whatever may come my way.

This season of gratitude has been a powerful reminder of all the good in our lives and the incredible community in which I live. As we embrace all the positive changes we wish to see in our lives, let us carry forward the spirit of thankfulness and action, to make ourselves better, stronger, and more positive human beings. Let us make sure to bring the power of positive reflection into 2025.

Dr. Rahm is a scientist, patent innovator, author, and scientific formulator for The ROOT Brands® and DRC Ventures. Learn more about her at https://drchristinarahm.com/