Perhaps the goal shouldn’t be to have more happy thoughts.
Instead, maybe we should aim to hold onto our unhappy thoughts a little less tightly.
Self-criticism is necessary for growth and transformation. It’s a genetic tool to keep us evolving. But we often forget that part of the formula and perseverate on telling ourselves we’re not good enough.
The fact of the matter is all of those outwardly happy people out there have plenty of inwardly dark moments too. It’s not that they’re better at banishment; they’re better at letting go. Or rather, not holding on in the first place.
Thoughts should flow through us like a trickling brook. Watch out for whirlpools.