Today I want to talk about the phrase “Good Vibes Only” that I’ve seen a lot of recently, especially on the internet with the hashtag #goodvibesonly. It refers to a positive lifestyle, not only for exuding a more upbeat outlook on life, but also for expelling negative thoughts and emotions. 

I have always believed in having a positive mindset and to try to stray from the negative if possible. There is nothing wrong with wanting some good vibes coming our way. The reality is, however, that not everything will be positive all the time. Things far outside of our control are bound to happen. So what happens when it’s not always #goodvibesonly?

The main thing to keep in mind is what’s truly realistic in life. We have to have a mental toughness about us that allows us to be in-tune with the positive things in our lives, yet allows us to also acknowledge and deal with the negative ones in a healthy manner.

One of the key components to establishing this balance is to avoid delusional thinking. Attempting to hold onto a constant positive attitude—regardless of what is going on around you—is not enough to simply change what is going on around you. Similarly, allowing yourself to fall into a negative or depressed mindset 24/7 is not going to safeguard you from pain and heartache. 

You have to find a middle ground by training your mind to work for you in a way that is conducive to living a happy and fulfilling life, but within the constraints of reality. That “middle ground destination” might look slightly different for everyone. 

Like many things—this may be easier said than done. Nevertheless, it is something that can be accomplished, but how? 

One of your first steps may be getting to know yourself better. Learn how your brain operates by trying to tap into subconscious thoughts that usually have us running on auto pilot. 

However, attempting to get to know yourself better can be super tough for some people. What ended up working for me was a combination of therapy, EMDR, and a lot of meditation and self-reflection. 

Additionally, reading various self-help books was a huge eye-opener for me. If it had not been for some of the books I read, I don’t know that I would have learned so much about how the subconscious mind operates. The first book that really sparked this adventure for me was Unfu*k Yourself by Gary John Bishop. (Check out the Helpful Links section of my website to find a link to Gary’s website for more information on this book and others written by him.) This is just one of the many books and resources that I have found to be helpful.  

Through all of this, I have tried to keep an open mind and have close conversations about the things I was learning with people whom I trust. By having discussions with these people, I was able to learn even more about myself by spurring me to think in ways that I had never done before. 

This is where therapy can be huge for some people. Like any good teacher or mentor, amazing therapists have a knack for asking just the right question or responding to you in such a way that elicits you to think deeper and begin to learn about yourself. For me, it was quite an eye-opening and mind-blowing experience.

Like I’ve mentioned earlier, everyone is different, so the way you get to this point might be a completely different journey, but I am sure that you will find your way. 

If you have ever found yourself stuck with negativity, depression, anxiety, or any unhealthy train of thought that overpowers you day-to-day, take a chance and try to learn more about yourself. Take back control of your own mind.

Get yourself ready for those moments in life when it’s not just “good vibes.” Always be prepared so you can handle negative situations in a controlled and mentally poised manner. Put yourself in a place that when everything isn’t #goodvibesonly, you can handle it like a pro. 

In upcoming posts, I plan on writing more on the subconscious mind. Until then, challenge yourself to read a book or do more research on the topic to see how your subconscious could be affecting you and have you running on auto pilot.

Until next time… Much Love,

Logan August