We hear it all the time: “Just think positive.”

Okay, but how?

I’ll let you in on a little secret: There’s no “formula” (gasp!) for generating more positive thoughts and, in turn, more positive actions (remember, thoughts become things). We all have negative thoughts – doubt, fear, anxiety, stress, you name it. Most self-starters and entrepreneurs probably experience this more frequently because they depend on their own performance to create their lifestyle.

So what should we do when we feel the stress start to snowball? How can we take immediate action to shift into a more positive state? Here are three things I find myself doing on (at least) a daily basis.

1. Breathe deep. Deeper than that.

This helps if you count it out – in for five, hold for five, out for eight. When we focus solely on our breath, distractions seem to evaporate. Think of it this way: If you’re under water for a while, and you get to that point where panic starts to set in, what do you feel? What do you think? “Get air,” right? You tense up, your sympathetic nervous system switches on, and adrenaline rushes through your body. Breathing shorter and faster on a daily basis won’t give you that immediate sensation, but compounded over time, can perpetuate unwanted anxiety. Watch this video example on counting out your breath.

Again, in for 5 counts, hold for 5 counts, out for 8 counts. Do this 10 full breaths in a row and let me know in the comments below how it changed your mood.

2. Say “Thank You” the very first thing in the morning.

Starting your day off with gratitude sets the tone. You don’t have to thank anything or anyone in particular, just sit at the edge of your bed, take a deep breath in, smile and say thank you on your exhale.

3. Get to know a stranger

Make the entire conversation about them. Have absolutely no agenda for you. This will force you to smile, get interested, and get your mind off of you and your issues. At the end of the chat, if appropriate, ask the person “how can I help?” Every time I do this, I walk away feeling happier. Comment below and let me know how it changes your mood.

“The wealthiest person is the one who finds a way to do, be and give more than everyone else.” – Tony Robbins

Want more tips on how to shift into a more positive state? Download my free ebook, “Break Through Your Average,” here.