Overcoming the Pull of Horror: How to Shift from Negative to Positive Entertainment

Many of us find ourselves drawn to horror movies and shows, but the dark content can leave us feeling overwhelmed and saddened. If this sounds like you, it's important to remember that these feelings are understandable. However, taking steps to combat them can make a significant difference in your well-being.

Breaking the Cycle: Tips to Overcome Your Affinity for Horror

To get rid of the negativity, start by focusing on the entertainment value of horror movies rather than their underlying content. Try to distance yourself mentally from the negative aspects, and if possible, avoid watching them altogether. While this might seem drastic, taking a break can help you reset.

Replacement is Key: Habits can be replaced by other habits. It's important to add something positive to your life to replace the negative. A well-established study shows that it takes about 21 days for a new habit to become a routine. During this period, whenever you feel the urge to watch horror movies, engage in a new activity that brings you joy.

Replacing Horror with Positivity

Many of us enjoy horror movies because they bring a mix of thrill, suspense, and even a sense of empowerment. Horror movies can teach you to not fear the unknown and develop survival skills. However, it's important to balance these experiences with a positive outlook on life.

Realize the Positivity in Your Life: Every time you watch a horror movie, remind yourself that your life is actually quite good. Monsters under the bed, haunted by evil spirits, or demons in a closet are not part of your reality. Acknowledge the positive aspects of your life. Laugh and Relieve Stress: Consider adding horror comedies to your movie repertoire. These types of films can provide an emotional release by making you laugh at your fears. Some favorites include: Shaun of the Dead: A classic zombie comedy that keeps you laughing even as it sets the stage for a thrilling action sequence. Housebound: A heartwarming yet suspenseful family comedy that will keep you engaged without overwhelming you. Dale and Tucker vs Evil: A film that offers both humor and adventure, helping you see the light even in darker situations. Para-Norman: A film that teaches the value of being true to oneself and facing fears head-on. What We Do In the Shadows: A cult classic that blends humor and horror, making it a perfect blend for fans of both genres.

These films not only provide a form of escape but also help you find humor in things that once felt frightening.

The Power of Historical Movies

Interestingly, history, while factual, can sometimes feel more horrific and depressing than fictional horror movies. Watching historical movies can be a powerful way to gain perspective and foster a positive outlook. These films often highlight the strength and resilience of human beings during challenging times.

Choose Historical Films: Moving away from the fear and negativity of horror, opt for movies that celebrate historical events and the courage of those who lived through them. This can help you appreciate the present moment and find joy in life. Balance Your Viewing: While it's okay to indulge in horror occasionally, try to ensure that your overall movie diet includes a mix of positive content. This will help maintain a healthy balance.

Ultimately, the goal is to find a balance that works for you. Whether it's through adding more positivity to your life or shifting your perspective, taking these steps can help you overcome the pull of negativity and find a healthier approach to entertainment.

Conclusion

By focusing on the positive aspects of your life and exploring new forms of entertainment, you can shift from a mindset filled with negativity to one that's full of joy and positivity. Remember, a little positivity can go a long way in enhancing your overall well-being.

If you find that these methods are not enough, there's no shame in seeking professional help, such as therapy, to further address any underlying issues.