Many people will exert effort to focus more on positive thinking. They hear it's a worthwhile thing to do and decide to "give it a go." And yet, people will also say they find that it can be challenging not to fall back into previous, negative habits. If being consistent is key, then the question you would best ask yourself is what sorts of strategies would be helpful? Make a list.

1) Listen to yourself.  How often do you utter negatives, contraditions and tentatives such as, "not bad," "awfully good," "terribly delicious,""try" or "not sure"?  You may benefit from more vigilence. Think before you speak. Which words do you use? You send subliminal messages to yourself and others. When you're serious about being more positive, you will refrain from using words that reinforce the opposite. Ask someone to point words out in case you miss them. Every word counts.

2) Distinguish between patterns you desire and don't desire.  Do you have an issue with mood swings? word usage? attitude? destructive mindset? specific behaviors in specific settings? In order to make a conscious change, you really need to have a conscious understanding of issues that bother you.  Identify conditions, people or events that trigger patterns you like or don't. All forms of mental transformation hinge on this basic understanding at the level of perception.

3) Respond constructively. As you learn to discern the kind of thinking you wish to nurture in yourself, its vital not to reprimand yourself if you deviate from the desired path. Such a reaction would focus on negativity, and this is precisely the kind of pattern you aim to eliminate. Rather than wonder if your confusing right- or wrong-minded thinking, simply respond to all your efforts with desire to heal, correct and move forward. Sense your progress. It will come when you're truly ready.