We are all trying to better ourselves: to become kinder, smarter, stronger, and happier. That is why the road to self-improvement must start with adopting a positive mental attitude. By asking the opinions of psychologists (not to mention talking to happy people), the Bright Side team has compiled a list of helpful rules of behavior that will help you achieve true peace of mind! 12. Think positively, yet realistically.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/vv9f_DwaaA0iCaruk918mdETuhf.jpg)
11. Pamper yourself, but don’t give in to temptations.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/aXRmRS-l5OwofhznZusmdW-URjF.jpg)
10. Spend your days with people that can make you laugh, but don’t forget to allow yourself time to feel sad.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/yxAeuLZ2jYyg1KxtOTQ7yMLKaM6.jpg)
9. Don’t suppress negative emotions — channel them in a constructive direction instead.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/2_RhSeJtQROsMgyzWAQJDXECMKz.jpg)
8. Try to help others, but be careful not to exhaust yourself.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/YqarpZTXLDi72l1c6kEkBfWlaMK.jpg)
7. Take time-outs whenever you find it difficult to deal with something right away.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/-MCUOJJt5n02Rc1OEiy4kL0A_Hg.jpg)
6. Don’t forget to experiment and remain curious.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/g74iy2VrMy-VHBSn8mSxbr1o0Gf.jpg)
5. Analyze yourself, but in a benevolent and loving manner.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/uNdB3LZNx1knRe46vCBgrXCrROy.jpg)
4. Learn to let go of people and things.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/dS_DCnMMkbUcZBHOuEeT53qPoCD.jpg)
3. Work at improving yourself, but do it gradually.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/rGCysONDvjTYU9aFIHH_Ch3Q6re.jpg)
2. Remember — you can’t force yourself to be happy and well motivated around the clock.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/igfOJnCOttwqaDM1YRE0vYYj3du.jpg)
1. Don’t keep yourself within artificial boundaries.
![](https://ereko.am/post/extra/szTkwYnp8d7Su56zMKqxTudLYQV.jpg)
Illustrated by Daniil Shubin for BrightSide.me