Focusing on positive things and maintaining an optimistic mindset allows a person to see the good in situations and approach challenges with hope. This ability isn't fixed—it can be learned and developed over time through practice and effort to reshape one's views in life and response to life's ups and downs.
The Focusing on the Positive Worksheet allows clients to recall happy memories and identify things they enjoy doing, like about themselves, and motivational content. In the worksheet, they can also write down positive phrases they use during tough times, things they are grateful for, and the people who inspire and make them smile.
Kids and teens answering the worksheet may feel more positive, which helps alleviate some of the symptoms of depression or unhappiness in their lives. For an optimal experience, we would recommend completing the activity in a calm environment, such as a corner with a soothing view of nature, like a window overlooking a garden.
Caring adults can also provide comforting drinks or snacks, such as tea or fruit, during the activity. After completing it, they can sit down together to discuss the answers, and offer supportive feedback.
*This item is an instant digital download. A link to download your files will be emailed to you once payment is confirmed.
Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of depression worksheets and handouts.
References:
- Coote, H. M., & MacLeod, A. K. (2012). A self‐help, positive goal‐focused intervention to increase well‐being in people with depression. Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy, 19(4), 305-315. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpp.1797
- Hassan, K., Sadaf, S., Saeed, A., & Idrees, A. (2018). Relationship between hope, optimism and life satisfaction among adolescents. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 9(10), 1452-1457. https://doi.org/10.14299/ijser.2018.10.09
- Kardas, F., Cam, Z., Eskisu, M., & Gelibolu, S. (2019). Gratitude, hope, optimism and life satisfaction as predictors of psychological well-being. Eurasian Journal of Educational Research, 19(82), 1-20. https://doi.org/10.14689/ejer.2019.82.5
- Santos, Veruska & Paes, Flávia & Pereira, Valeska & Arias-Carrión, Oscar & Cardoso, Adriana & Carta, Mauro & Nardi, Antonio & Machado, Sergio. (2013). The Role of Positive Emotion and Contributions of Positive Psychology in Depression Treatment: Systematic Review. Clinical practice and epidemiology in mental health : CP & EMH. 9. 221-37. 10.2174/1745017901309010221.
