Imagine being able to consciously transform all your negative thoughts and emotions into something positive. Instead of fearing the changes that come with menopause, you would see this time as an opportunity for a fresh start. Challenging situations would no longer feel like obstacles, but like chances to grow, prove your strength, and emerge more resilient.
Here’s how you can make that shift.
The power of positive thinking
What distinguishes people who breeze through challenges from those who tend to struggle?
The main difference lies in how they interpret situations. While some see everything in dark shades, people with a positive mindset manage to find meaningful or encouraging aspects even in difficult situations – and they don’t let negativity cloud their view of the world.
They are able to transform unpleasant thoughts and emotions into something constructive and refuse to be controlled by them. This is especially valuable during menopause, a phase that can bring changes that feel overwhelming or even frightening.
And the best part? It’s never too late to learn how to think positively.
Say goodbye to negative feelings: The PERMA model
Positive thinking is not an esoteric practice but a well-established field of research known as positive psychology. One of its most renowned voices is American professor Martin Seligman, who teaches positive psychology at the University of Pennsylvania.
Seligman developed the PERMA model, which defines five key factors that contribute to happiness and wellbeing. The acronym PERMA stands for:
- P = Positive emotions (experiencing pleasant emotions)
- E = Engagement (using and applying your strengths)
- R = Relationships (cultivating positive social connections)
- M = Meaning (experiencing purpose)
- A = Accomplishment (achieving goals)
But what does this mean for you personally? And how can you use this model to learn positive thinking?
How can I learn to think positively?
A crucial step toward positive thinking—and to giving less space to negative emotions—is to intentionally experience good feelings and sharpen your awareness of them. Put simply: the more often you feel good, the better you will feel overall.
The following exercises can support you:
- Positive daily reflection
- Flow experience
Stable relationships, a sense of meaning, and self-acceptance are also essential for wellbeing and a positive mindset, so be sure not to neglect them.
Exercise: Positive daily reflection
One simple exercise to boost optimism is the positive daily reflection. Each evening, write down three things that were beautiful or meaningful to you that day. You can take this even further by reflecting on why those moments felt good and how you contributed to them.
Flow experience for positive thoughts
This leads us to the second point: becoming fully immersed in an activity, also known as the flow state. When you know your strengths and use them intentionally to accomplish tasks, your confidence can grow significantly.
The first step is identifying your own strengths. Self-reflection can help with this, as can conversations with others. Once you know your strengths, apply them in both your personal and professional life—ideally in a way that creates neither stress nor boredom, but allows you to fully immerse yourself in what you’re doing and enter a flow state.
These tips from positive psychology can support you:
- Minimise distractions such as noise or disruptive music.
- Break complex tasks down into smaller steps.
- Seek out new challenges and break free from routine.
- Replace negative beliefs (instead of “I can’t do this,” say: “I can’t do this yet”).
- Use meditation to strengthen mindfulness and self-awareness.
How can you strengthen positive thinking during menopause?
Alongside our social relationships and daily responsibilities, our physical health plays a crucial role in shaping happiness, wellbeing, and positive thoughts. When we feel strong and well in our bodies, it becomes much easier to enjoy life and recognise the positive aspects of menopause.
A varied diet and regular movement are both incredibly helpful. It doesn’t matter whether you go for a walk with friends or attend a yoga class. What matters far more is choosing an activity you truly enjoy—one that might even bring you into a flow state. Maybe you’d like to try something new, such as Tai Chi or Qigong?
Keep in mind that you cannot simply “reprogram” your mind to think positively overnight. Learning to think positively requires consistent practice, discipline, and perseverance.
For support during challenging phases of menopause, menofemme can be a valuable companion. It contains a unique blend of plant extracts tailored to the needs of women in midlife, helping you clear your mind so you can fully focus on cultivating a positive mindset.