Have you ever noticed how just being around some people seems to lift you up, while others seem to drain your energy? I've certainly experienced this firsthand. After going through a difficult period in my life surrounded by negative influences, I realized the power of positive people.
Now, I make an active effort to attract more positivity into my inner circle. Through trial and error, I've found several effective techniques to magnetize uplifting people into my life.
In this article, I'll share actionable tips based on psychological research that you can apply to draw more positive connections. Implementing these has allowed me to curate a community of inspiring, supportive friends who help me be my best self.
So if you want to upgrade your squad, read on! Here's how to be a shining beacon who attracts other rays of sunshine.
Step 1: Be a Positive Person Yourself
I know, I know - this seems obvious. But the best way to attract positivity is to be positivity. By cultivating our own inner light, we shine brighter and pull like-minded people in.
The law of attraction suggests that we manifest more of whatever energy we exude. Like attracts like. Make sure you're putting out the upbeat vibes you want reflected back.
Here are some habits I practice daily to amp up my own positivity:
Gratitude journaling - I start my day writing down things I'm grateful for. This tunes me into all the goodness I already have.
Affirmations - While getting ready, I repeat uplifting mantras like "I am joyful, I am successful, I am empowered." Setting this positive tone works wonders.
Meditation - Taking time to meditate keeps me centered in the present moment rather than spiraling into negativity about the past or future.
Movement - Whether it's yoga, walking, or dancing, getting my body moving releases feel-good endorphins! This boosts my mood and energy.
Acts of kindness - Doing nice things for others gives me a helper's high. I try to smile at strangers, send encouraging texts to friends, donate to charities - anything to spread more goodness.
When you exude light, you'll find your tribe of fireflies who glow bright too.
Step 2: Spend More Time with Positive People
Jim Rohn famously said, "You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with." Our friends and community profoundly influence who we are.
That's why I'm mindful about curating my inner circle. Here are some strategies I use:
Take inventory of current relationships - Which nourish you, and which dim your light? Don't feel obligated to cling to draining connections. Polite distance is fine.
Join groups - I've met tons of positive people through Meetups, volunteering, classes, even Bumble BFF! Pursue hobbies and causes you care about.
Go where the vibes are good - Places like yoga studios, farmer's markets, museums, live music venues tend to attract spiritually awake people. Say yes to invitations and strike up conversations.
Be friendlier - I chat up positive cashiers, baristas, coworkers, etc. Being open has connected me to amazing people I'd otherwise never meet.
The more you mingle with uplifting people, the more you'll magnetize your "tribe." Their positive energy will rub off on you!
Step 3: Look for the Good in People
This one can be tough. It's easy to focus on what annoys us about people. But for every flaw, there is goodness in them too.
Having an open, loving mindset allows me to perceive beauty in everyone. I've been surprised that people I judged negatively at first later became close friends once I took the time to know their stories.
Here are some tips to adopt a more positive lens:
Lead with understanding - If someone is rude, assume they're having a bad day. Look past quirks to see the hurting heart needing kindness.
Compliment people - I look for opportunities to genuinely compliment others' talents, style, values, etc. This makes them light up and connects us.
Focus on common ground - No matter how different people seem initially, we all share fundamental hopes and needs - love, joy, belonging. Bond over your common humanity.
Approaching all people with openness and compassion makes me a magnet for positive connections everywhere I go.
Step 4: Be Open to New Experiences
Stepping outside your comfort zone is scary - but that's exactly why to do it! Having the courage to try new things expands your world and opens you up to meeting uplifting people.
Here are some ways I've broken out of my bubble:
Traveling solo - Some of my best friendships stemmed from chance encounters backpacking abroad. People tend to be more open and social while traveling.
Joining a recreational sports league - I was anxious at first, but getting out on a volleyball court introduced me to fantastic energetic people. Plus, exercise keeps me positive!
Taking a class - I've made some of my closest friends attending writing workshops, art courses, cooking classes, etc. Bonding over learning something novel creates lasting connections.
Attending festivals - Whether it's music, cultural, art, or even a Renaissance fair, festivals draw eclectic crowds. Positive people flock to these celebrations of life.
Flexing your courage muscle to try new activities pays off with colorful new friendships. Say yes to invitations that make you grow.
Step 5: Be Kind to Yourself and Others
Some people seem to radiate a warmth that instantly makes you feel accepted. What's their secret sauce? I've found that kindness is utterly contagious. Making people feel cared for attracts kindred spirits.
Little acts of compassion go a long way:
Smile and make eye contact - This small gesture of acknowledgement makes strangers feel seen. I smile at folks walking by and watch them instantly brighten up.
Give genuine compliments - I regularly compliment coworkers, baristas, cashiers on their skills, style, etc. Everyone beams at praise.
Practice active listening - When conversing, I give people my full attention to truly hear them. Valuing their voice makes them value mine too.
Send encouraging texts - I check in on friends going through tough times with texts like "Thinking of you!" and "You've got this!" It means the world.
When you lead with warmth, you organically coax people's light to shine too.
Step 6: Be Genuine
People have an excellent radar for when someone is being fake. But being our authentic selves attracts others who will appreciate and accept us.
Here's how I cultivate genuine connections:
Let my quirks fly - I embrace my nerdy fascination with historical fashion. Leaning into my uniqueness attracts my people.
Admit my flaws - I'm upfront when I'm struggling, be it anxiety or other challenges. This vulnerability invites reciprocation.
Avoid judging others' interests - I engage with curiosity about even obscure hobbies. Showing interest in their passion draws people in.
Ask meaningful questions - In conversation, I avoid small talk and ask about their values, dreams, childhood memories, etc. This fosters intimacy.
Embracing your true self fosters the deepest bonds. Positive people will be drawn to the unique color you add to the world.
In Summary...
Who we surround ourselves with can make or break our mindset. But by being intentional, we can curate a motivating tribe of positive friends.
To attract more uplifting people, lead with your own light. Open your heart to see the good in others. Step outside your comfort zone to welcome new connections. When you exude genuine kindness and warmth, your vibe will act like a magnet.
Shining your inner light allows kindred spirits to find you. Soon, you'll be illuminated by an entire constellation of radiant friendships.