Be Positive, Not Negative

An activity for “peace within and between” that focuses on negative self-talk, negative thoughts and statements about others, and complaining. A good idea is to have youth commit to this activity for at least one full day, and even longer if possible. All that is needed is a large quantity of paper clips. Explain to youth that each time they have a negative thought (about themselves, about someone else) and each time they say out loud negative statements and/or they complain, they must collect a paper clip for each thought or statement. Throughout the day, youth will need to be conscious of their thoughts and words and gather paper clips when necessary, stringing them together during the day. This can be continued at home with caregivers, as we are often harshest with our loved ones. The hope is that by drawing attention to our negativity, we can consciously shift to positive thoughts and statements.