Creating a Supportive Environment: Surround Yourself with Positivity

Creating a Supportive Environment How to Surround Yourself with Positivity

The Transformative Power of a Supportive Environment

Do you ever feel like negativity is pulling you down?

Imagine a world where your surroundings, including your thoughts and social circles, consistently support your growth and happiness. A genuinely supportive environment has the power to transform your mental health, well-being, and overall outlook on life. Are you ready to cultivate this positivity?

As a Transformational Whole Self and Wellness Lifestyle Empowerment Coach, I have focused on teaching that it’s not just about the actions we take each day, but also about the environments we choose, both internal and external, that have the power to change our lives for the better. In this article, we’ll explore how to create supportive spaces to help you thrive.

Key Takeaways

• Building a supportive environment is critical for mental and emotional well-being.
• Positivity starts from within: Practice gratitude, positive self-talk, and address negative emotions constructively.
• Evaluate your environment: Identify toxic relationships, draining spaces, and areas where you need more support.
• Create a nurturing physical space: Declutter, organize, and incorporate elements that inspire and relax you.
• Find your tribe: Seek out communities and people who share your values and interests.
• Manage social media mindfully: Limit negativity and curate an online space that uplifts you.
• Prioritize physical health: Nourishing food, quality sleep, and stress management impact your mood and energy levels.
• Spread kindness: Acts of kindness, generosity, and support strengthen relationships and create a ripple effect of positivity.
• Positivity is an ongoing journey: Embrace progress, not perfection. Be kind to yourself as you continue to grow.

The Power of a Positive Circle

Assess Your Current Environment

Building a supportive environment starts with self-awareness. Take a mindful look at the people you spend the most time with in your personal life. Do your interactions leave you feeling energized and inspired, or do you find yourself drained by negativity and criticism? This isn’t about judging others but recognizing the impact these relationships have on your well-being.

In my work as a coach, I’ve seen firsthand how surrounding yourself with positive people can be a powerful tool for managing negative emotions and fostering self-esteem. Supportive friends and family uplift you, celebrate your successes, and offer a shoulder to lean on during tough times. These strong social connections are essential building blocks for a happy and fulfilling life.

Take Inventory: What Influences Your Well-being?

Your environment extends far beyond just the people you interact with. To build a truly supportive space, take a holistic look at the influences in your life. Start by considering:

• Personal relationships: Who do you spend the most time with? How do these connections make you feel?
• Physical environments: Does your home feel like a sanctuary? Is your workplace inspiring or draining?
• Digital spaces: How does your social media use or the content you consume impact your mental health and self-esteem?

As a coach, I often encourage clients to keep a “feelings journal” for a week. Notice how you feel in different environments and during interactions. This awareness is the first step towards choosing surroundings that support your overall well-being.

Pruning the Positivity Garden: Recognizing Negative Influences

Not all relationships are created equal. As you assess your environment, it’s important to identify people or situations that have a negative impact on your well-being. This isn’t always easy – sometimes negativity can be subtle. Here’s what to watch for:

• Relationships that drain your energy: Do you leave interactions feeling depleted or emotionally exhausted?
• Behaviors that chip away at your self-esteem: Are you constantly criticized or belittled by someone in your life?
• Exposure to negativity: Does someone you know constantly complain or engage in gossip?

In my coaching practice, I’ve seen firsthand how these negative influences can lead to feelings of depression and hinder your ability to thrive. The key is to notice the patterns and take action to protect your emotional well-being. 

This might involve setting boundaries, reducing contact, or even ending a toxic relationship. Remember, creating a supportive environment is an ongoing process, and sometimes it requires pruning to allow the positive aspects to flourish.

Tuning into Your Internal Compass: How Your Environment Shapes You

Our environment profoundly impacts who we are and how we experience the world. This influence goes beyond just the conscious level. The spaces we inhabit can subtly shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. 

Here’s a helpful tip: take a moment to observe your internal state throughout the day mindfully.

• Notice your emotional shifts: Do you feel a surge of motivation after a conversation with a supportive friend? Does negativity from a colleague leave you feeling anxious or frustrated?
• Pay attention to your behavior patterns: Do specific environments make you want to be more active or creative? Does being around disorganized spaces make it harder to focus?
• Develop a sense of your ideal environment: By tuning into these internal shifts, you can gain valuable insights into the kind of environment that best supports your overall well-being.

Remember, creating a supportive space is an ongoing process. By being mindful of these subtle influences, you can take proactive steps to cultivate an environment that fosters your mental and emotional health.

Identifying Gaps: Where Positivity Can Bloom

Once you understand how your environment shapes your feelings and actions, you can begin identifying areas in your life that crave a boost of positivity. Consider these questions:

• Are there areas where I consistently feel uninspired or unsupported?
• What aspects of my life trigger negative emotions like stress, anxiety, or disappointment?
• Where would I benefit from additional encouragement or a fresh perspective?

Through my experience working with individuals seeking more balance, a helpful practice is to spend a few minutes each day expressing gratitude for the positive things in your life. This simple act rewires your brain to seek out positivity actively and reminds you of the support that already exists around you. 

Be bold and speak up, and reach out to trusted friends, family, or professionals if you need further support to achieve your life goals. Recognizing those gaps helps guide you toward a more fulfilling and positive existence.

Cultivating Positivity Within

The Power of “Me Time”: Fostering Self-Awareness

True positivity starts from within, and developing a sense of self-awareness is key to unlocking it. In our fast-paced digital age, finding moments of stillness and self-reflection can feel like a challenge – even an abstract concept. Here’s why it’s important and some ways I’ve found to make it work:

• Understanding your triggers: Knowing what situations or interactions bring down your mood helps you avoid or manage them proactively.
• Identifying core values: What truly matters to you in life? Aligning your environment with your values promotes inner peace.
• Creative outlets: Whether it’s journaling, creative writing, or simply taking a walk in nature, having ways to decompress and process your thoughts is essential.

Feel free to experiment with different self-discovery practices. Like anything else, self-awareness is a habit that grows stronger over time. The more you know about your internal world, the better equipped you’ll be to create external environments that nourish you.

Setting Boundaries: Protecting Your Inner Sanctuary

Healthy boundaries are like protective walls for your mental health and well-being. They allow you to say “yes” to what serves you and a clear “no” to what doesn’t. This can be as simple as setting aside time for self-care in your daily life or learning to express your needs with those around you.

In helping people find balance, I often see how a lack of boundaries leads to feeling overwhelmed, resentful, and emotionally drained. Creating and upholding personal boundaries might feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s a powerful form of self-respect. Remember, you have the right to set limits and prioritize your own needs and happiness.

The Power of “No”: Setting Boundaries for Positive Connections

Healthy boundaries aren’t just about protecting yourself from negativity; they also empower you to cultivate stronger and more positive social connections. By setting limits, you make space in your life for people who genuinely support and uplift you.

When I first began setting boundaries with specific individuals, I was surprised by the results. Not only did it improve my own well-being, but it also shifted those relationships in unexpected ways. Some people rose to the occasion, and our bond deepened as a result. 

Others naturally drifted away, confirming that they were not truly contributing to a positive environment in my life. Setting boundaries is about honoring your feelings and needs, ultimately creating a stronger foundation for your social life.

Nurturing Positive Connections: Strengthening Your Support System

Our relationships with family members, friends, and romantic partners hold incredible potential for support and joy. However, even the strongest connections can benefit from extra attention. Here are a few ways to actively nurture positivity within these bonds:

• Express gratitude and appreciation: Take the time to tell loved ones what you appreciate about them. Specific affirmations of their best qualities will have a positive impact!
• Practice acts of kindness: Whether small gestures or thoughtful surprises, acts of kindness strengthen bonds.
• Prioritize open communication: Expressing your feelings honestly and respectfully leads to greater understanding and fosters deeper connections.

In my experience, even simple shifts in behavior can have a profound effect on relationships. Approaching loved ones with positivity and open-heartedness encourages them to do the same. Remember, building a supportive environment is a two-way street; by choosing positive actions, you create positive ripples.

Finding Your Tribe

Feeling part of a like-minded community benefits our social well-being and mental health immensely. We feel seen, supported, and inspired when we connect with people who share our values, passions, or life experiences. It’s time to find your tribe!

Think about the hobbies and interests that light you up. Are you passionate about creative writing? Do you crave outdoor adventures? Whether it’s an online course, a local meet-up group, or a social gathering centered on your interests, seek out spaces where you can connect with those who share your passions.

Personally, finding a group of fellow writers several years ago was life-changing. Suddenly, I had a network of people who understood my creative quirks and were genuinely invested in my success. Actively seeking a sense of belonging can unlock a whole new dimension of positivity and personal growth.

Navigating the Digital Landscape: Curating Positive Online Spaces

Social media and the digital world can be tricky to navigate when it comes to building a supportive environment. Here’s how to create a digital space that fuels your well-being:

• Be mindful of your digital diet: Consider the content you consume on a regular basis. Does it leave you feeling energized or depleted? Unfollow accounts that promote negativity or unrealistic comparisons.
• Healthy boundaries with tech: Set clear limits on screen time and avoid checking social media right before bed or first thing in the morning.
• Seek out the positive: Follow accounts and consume content that inspires, educates, or genuinely uplifts you.

It took me a while to realize that I needed to manage my digital intake in just the same way I approach a balanced diet. Setting limits on social media and focusing on content that supported my personal growth made a huge difference in my mental well-being. Just like with other aspects of your environment, being intentional about your online consumption is key!

Create a Nurturing Physical Space

Decluttering and Organizing: Creating a Functional Space

Our physical environment has a surprising influence on our mental state. A cluttered workspace or a disorganized living area can lead to feelings of overwhelm and hinder productivity. Here are some tips to create a space that fosters well-being:

• Declutter and organize: Take some time to declutter your living and workspaces systematically. Start by tackling a single area at a time, like a desk drawer or closet shelf. Sort items into categories like “keep,” “donate,” and “trash.”
• Implement storage solutions: Invest in baskets, bins, shelves, or other organizational tools to create dedicated homes for your belongings. This makes it easier to maintain order even when life gets busy.
• Develop systems that work for you: Establish routines and create systems that help you maintain the organized space over time.

A clean and organized space is essential for clear thinking and focus. After a particularly chaotic week, I recently spent an afternoon decluttering my home office. 

I implemented labeled files and storage solutions for supplies, and the sense of calm and clarity that followed was remarkable! By taking control of your physical environment, you create a space that encourages relaxation, productivity, and overall mental clarity.

Setting the Mood: Sensory Elements for Inspiration and Peace

Your physical environment isn’t just about organization; it’s about creating a sensory experience that promotes well-being. Here are some tips to incorporate elements that inspire and relax:

• Embrace the power of plants: Studies have shown that houseplants can reduce stress and boost creativity. Add a touch of nature to your space with a low-maintenance succulent or a vibrant flowering plant.
• Harness the benefits of natural light: Open curtains and blinds whenever possible. Natural light not only improves your mood but also regulates your sleep-wake cycle.
• Infuse your space with inspiration: Surround yourself with things that spark joy and ignite your creativity. This could be anything from inspiring artwork to a favorite quote displayed on a beautiful board or journal to practice gratitude and affirmations.

In my own experience, I’ve found that small changes can have a big impact. For example, adding a few low-light plants to my workspace purified the air and created a sense of calm during stressful moments. Feel free to experiment and find what sensory elements resonate most with you. Incorporating these details allows you to transform your space into a sanctuary for relaxation and inspiration.

Carving Out Your Corner: Designating a Self-Care Sanctuary

Sometimes, the first step towards a nurturing environment is claiming a physical space dedicated to your well-being rituals. This could be a cozy corner in your bedroom, a meditation nook in a spare room, or turning your home office into a multi-purpose space. Here’s how to make your self-care space work for you:

• Consider your favorite self-care activities: Do you love to journal, practice yoga, or simply curl up with a good book? Design your space to support these activities.
• Stock it with essentials: Keep items like a comfortable cushion, a journal, calming essential oils, or inspiring books within reach.
• Make it inviting: Choose soft lighting, and soothing colors, or add personal touches like treasured photos or artwork.

Having a space in my home specifically designated for self-care and personal growth has been incredibly helpful. I love ending my day by lighting a candle, listening to calming music, and journaling in my designated corner. This dedicated area encourages me to prioritize these practices and create a sense of ritual around caring for my well-being. It’s okay to experiment until you find the perfect setup for your space!

Your Space, Your Vibe: Reflecting Your Positive Intentions

A clean and inviting environment is both a symbol and a catalyst for positive energy. Think of it as the physical manifestation of the positivity you cultivate internally. Here are a few tips to ensure your space reflects your desire for well-being:

• Regular cleaning: Make it a habit to keep your space tidy. A clear space can lead to a clearer mind.
• Inviting scents: Use aromatherapy with essential oils or candles to create a calming atmosphere.
• Mood-boosting touches: Add cozy blankets, vibrant artwork, or inspiring décor to lift your spirits.

Caring for your physical surroundings is an active form of self-care. I love starting my day with a quick tidy-up and opening the windows for fresh air. It’s amazing how these small actions can set the tone for a positive day. Remember, a home that reflects your best self can positively impact your mental and physical health in many ways!

Rewrite Your Mindset: Harnessing Positive Energy

Gratitude: Your Daily Dose of Positivity

Making gratitude a daily practice is a powerful way to rewire your brain for positivity and joy. It’s about noticing and appreciating even the smallest good things in your life. Here’s how to get started:

• Gratitude Journal: Take a few minutes each day to write down 3-5 things you’re grateful for. These can range from a good cup of coffee to the support of loved ones.
• Thank those around you: Expressing gratitude to the people in your life strengthens relationships and creates a ripple effect of positivity.
• Find gratitude in challenges: Even difficult situations can offer opportunities for growth or unexpected blessings.

I’ve found that having a consistent gratitude practice helps me focus on the positive aspects of my life, especially when things get hectic. It reminds me how many blessings are present each day, regardless of external circumstances. Consider experimenting with different ways to express gratitude until you find a method that resonates with you!

Words that Shape Your Reality: Conscious Self-Talk

The words we use, both out loud and in our internal dialogue, have an incredible ability to shape how we see the world and ourselves. Here’s how to harness positive language:

• Reframe negativity: When negative thoughts arise, challenge them. Instead of “I can’t do this,” ask yourself, “What resources do I need to succeed?”
• Positive affirmations: Short and powerful statements like “I am capable” or “I am worthy” can combat negativity and boost confidence over time.
• Choose your words wisely: Be mindful of your everyday vocabulary. Aim to use hopeful, supportive words and focus on solutions.

As a former self-critic, I’ve seen firsthand how changing my self-talk has significantly improved my outlook on life. When I focus on using positive affirmations and challenge unhelpful thoughts, I notice a tangible shift in my mood, behavior, and overall well-being. Words carry tremendous power – choose them wisely!

Honor Every Win: Celebrating Your Unique Journey

Acknowledging your victories and growth – no matter how seemingly small – is a form of self-respect that boosts confidence. Here’s how to embrace this mindset:

• Shift your perspective: Redefine what “achievement” means for you. Did you stick with an exercise routine for a week? Did you finally make that doctor’s appointment? Celebrate it all!
• Keep a “win” jar: Write down each accomplishment on slips of paper and toss them in a jar. On tough days, revisit these little reminders of your progress.
• Reward yourself: Find ways to acknowledge milestones in a way that feels meaningful to you. It could be a simple treat, a relaxing bath, or time spent on a favorite hobby.

It’s easy to get caught up in comparing ourselves to others but celebrating our own victories is vital. In the past, I tended to focus on what I hadn’t yet done. But learning to applaud my efforts, regardless of how they measured up to someone else’s, has been a game-changer for my self-esteem. Remember, progress takes many forms – celebrate it all!

Infuse Your Space with Positivity: Visual Reminders of Your Power

Surrounding yourself with inspirational cues can be a powerful tool for cultivating a positive mindset. Here are some ways to make this happen:

• Vision Boards: Create a collage with images and words that represent your goals, dreams, and positive qualities. Seeing it daily will inspire you.
• Sticky notes of encouragement: Place uplifting phrases and reminders of your strengths in visible places like your mirror, computer, or fridge.
• Inspirational artwork: Choose art that resonates with you and sparks feelings of motivation, joy, or peace.

I have a collection of my favorite quotes displayed on a shelf in my office. Just glancing at them during a busy day can greatly change my perspective. It’s amazing how these small visual reminders can combat self-doubt and uplift your spirit. Don’t be afraid to get creative and surround yourself with affirmations that speak to you in a personal way!

Embracing the Messiness: Navigating Negative Emotions

Negative emotions are a natural part of the human experience, but it’s how we process them that makes a difference. Here are some healthy ways to manage those tricky feelings:

• Acknowledge and accept: Don’t try to suppress or deny negative emotions. Allow yourself to feel them, knowing they are temporary.
• Identify the root: Try to understand what triggers negative emotions for you. This awareness is the first step to finding healthy coping mechanisms.
• Develop tools for coping: Practices like mindfulness meditation, journaling, exercise, or talking to a trusted friend can help you work through challenging emotions without getting stuck.
• Practice self-compassion: Remember, negative emotions don’t make you a bad person. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding as you navigate them.

Acknowledging that you are human and making mistakes is how you learn and grow, and it will shift your perspective on negative emotions. Before, I saw them as a sign of weakness. Now, I try to understand the message they bring and find a healthy way to express them. Negative emotions are inevitable, but they don’t have to define you or derail your intentions for higher states of well-being.

Practical Tips for Increased Positivity

Engage in Positive Activities and Hobbies

Actively choosing activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit is essential to building a supportive environment. Here’s how to find what serves you:

• Explore your interests: What have you always wanted to try? Experiment with various hobbies – from creative pursuits like painting or dancing to fitness classes or even online courses to expand your knowledge.
• Prioritize what makes you happy: Focus on activities that bring genuine joy and a sense of fulfillment rather than what you feel you “should” be doing.
• Tap into your communities: Seek out classes, groups, or events that align with your passions. Shared hobbies create connections and inspire growth.

Ignite Your Inner Fire: Passion-Fueled Positivity

Pursuing your passions can ignite your inner fire and boost positivity. Rediscover forgotten interests from your past or step outside your comfort zone to try new things—creative pursuits like painting, fitness classes, online courses, or even adventurous outdoor activities can all spark joy.

Remember to carve out dedicated time in your schedule for what brings you happiness. After a demanding period at work, I reconnected with my love of watercolor painting, which brought renewed energy and artistic expression into my life. Pursuing your passions nurtures a vital aspect of yourself, fueling a positive mindset and overall well-being.

The Body-Mind Connection

Nourishing Yourself from the Inside Out

Prioritizing physical health has a direct impact on our mental and emotional well-being. Here’s how to create a foundation for positivity through physical care:

• Nourishing your body: Focus on whole foods, staying hydrated, and finding ways to incorporate enjoyable movement into your daily routine.
• Prioritizing sleep: Aim for quality sleep to help regulate mood and energy levels.
• Managing stress: Implement healthy stress-management techniques like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, or spending time in nature.

When I was in the health and fitness industry, I used to think wellness was only about diet and exercise. But now, I recognize that sleep, stress management, and our connection with our spiritual nature are just as critical. Now, I prioritize all of these foundational aspects of physical health for my clients, and in doing so, I have noticed a direct improvement in mood, focus, and overall energy levels. Caring for your body is a powerful form of self-care, allowing you to navigate life’s challenges with a grounded sense of well-being.

Beyond Yourself: Spreading Positivity to Others

Radiating Positivity: Spreading the Joy

Sharing kindness with those around you strengthens your relationships and creates a ripple effect of positivity. Here are some simple ways to uplift others:

• Practice acts of kindness: Offer a genuine compliment, a helping hand, or a simple smile to brighten someone’s day.
• Express gratitude: Let loved ones, colleagues, or even strangers know how much you appreciate them.
• Volunteer your time: Giving back to your community can be incredibly fulfilling and helps spread positive energy.
• Be an encouraging presence: Support friends and loved ones through challenges and celebrate their successes.

Even a simple act of kindness toward someone else can shift your perspective to a more positive place. It reminds you of our interconnectedness and the power of generosity. Ultimately, by choosing to spread positivity, we help create a kinder, more supportive world for ourselves and others.

The Lifelong Journey of Positivity

Cultivating and sharing positivity is a journey, not a destination. There will be days when negativity creeps in, and that’s perfectly normal. Don’t lose heart – remember that mistakes are part of growth. By being kind and forgiving towards yourself, you’ll maintain a healthy relationship with positivity. The long-term benefits are immense: stronger relationships, greater resilience, and a deeper sense of well-being.

Choose to prioritize self-care, surround yourself with supportive people, and spread kindness whenever possible. As you consistently embrace positivity, it will become a natural part of who you are, benefiting both yourself and those around you.

Your Invitation to a Positive Life

Throughout this article, we’ve explored the transformative power of creating a supportive environment. From cultivating inner positivity to building a nurturing external space, the key is identifying areas in your life where you can increase support. Remember, this isn’t about being perfect; it’s about consistent choices that lead to greater well-being.

I invite you to take action! Choose one area of your environment to actively improve this week. Set boundaries with negativity, start a gratitude journal, or make more time for activities that bring you joy. 

Every step you take towards positivity matters. Let’s continue this conversation! Share your own tips for creating a supportive environment in the comments below. Want to dive deeper? Download my free [Worksheet Title] to assess your current support network and identify areas for positive change.

Remember, positivity is a lifelong journey. Embrace the process, extend kindness to yourself, and watch your world blossom in unexpected ways.

Jahlila is a Transformational Whole Self and Wellness Lifestyle Empowerment Coach, a devoted mother, passionate writer, and a fervent advocate for holistic wellness. She is the creator of The Tri-Sync Method, a comprehensive coaching program designed to help women establish a personalized wellness and self-care lifestyle for enduring total health wellness.

Her journey has transitioned from focusing solely on health and fitness to embracing a broader mission: empowering women through holistic approaches that unite body, mind, and spirit. Jahlila is dedicated to teaching, coaching, writing, and speaking about how wellness intersects with a joyful, balanced life. Her mission is to motivate women to prioritize and achieve their wellness goals, fostering a deep connection between a vibrant lifestyle and true happiness.

Ready to reclaim your vitality, achieve mental clarity, and embrace your spiritual journey? Don’t wait another day to start living your healthiest, happiest life. Schedule a Free Discovery Consultation with Jahlila today to explore how The Tri-Sync Method can transform your life. For additional questions or personalized guidance, please visit our Contact Page.

Jahlila Bastian

Creating a Supportive Environment FAQ’s

Do you have other questions about cultivating positivity? Share them in the comments below!