called the three C's
One approach to positive thinking given by Martin (1991) is called the three C's: Commitment, Control and Challenge.
Commitment: Make a positive commitment to yourself, to learning, work, family, friends, nature, and other worthwhile causes. Praise yourself and others, Always dream of success, Be enthusiastic.
Control: Keep your mind focused on important things. Set goals and priorities for what you think and do. Visualize practicing your actions. Develop a strategy for dealing with problems. Learn to relax. Enjoy successes. Be honest with yourself.
Challenge: Be courageous. Change and improve each day. Do your best and don't look back. See learning and change as opportunities. Try new things. Consider several options. Meet new people. Ask lots of questions. Keep track of your mental and physical health. Be optimistic.
Martin (1991) has shown that people with these characteristics are winners in good times and survivors in hard times. "……People who begin consciously to modify their inner conversations and assumptions report an almost immediate improvement in their performance. Their energy increases and things seem to go better…"
Commitment, control and challenge help build self-esteem, reduce stress, live healthier and promote positive thinking.