ABSTRACT
Positive thinking takes the notion of we are what we think and transforms it into an approach that encourages ideas, words, and images into the mind that are conducive to performance, wellbeing, growth, and success. Everything we know, feel, and believe is based on our internal thoughts. Positive thinking impacts upon: control—both emotional control and life control; commitment; challenge; and interpersonal confidence. It is also an approach that appears in almost all models of resilience, mindset and optimism. Probably the best evidenced of all the positive thinking techniques, self talk is widely used in sports coaching where it is closely associated with developing a winning mindset. Some students will hear the word "exam" and will associate it with an eagerly anticipated opportunity to show the examiner what they can do. The propensity for negative thought can often be attributed to lack of positive, or overly critical, comment from parents when their children are in their formative years.
