Counteract Negative Thoughts

When we notice negativity pervading our thoughts, we can pause, consider what the opposite would be, and then introduce that opposite ... We counter feelings of hatred by contemplating love or loving-kindness. If we notice frustration, we think about patience. When we are anxious or worried, we remedy that with faith or contentment... Stinging with jealousy? Try the healing balm of appreciation.
~Yogacharya Ellen Grace O'Brian

At this time in the world and in this country, we can easily be overwhelmed with negativity pervading our thoughts. This method of opposites works really well for me when I have the mental energy to directly use it. Other times I find it useful to creep up on the opposite by drowning out negative thoughts with a mantra such as "May all beings be happy. May all beings be at peace." Then after a while I can smile my way into the opposite feeling successfully.