I was going to reply to your original comment since I feel much the same way, but this statement here is particularly helpful. I often feel lost, like I'm spinning without direction and find myself unsure what I want out of life. At those time it's much easier for me to identify what I don't want, than what I do. From there I can narrow things down a bit. This takes some time however, as it requires thinking, reflection and experimentation but a path, or at least a direction, usually surfaces.Yes, it basically all comes from what I don't want to do and then just rephrased to be more positive.
You just have to restructure your thinking to be optimistic and happy. People like that shit. I would bitch and moan all day if I could but it's much more fun to pretend you have your shit together, have everything under control and all is fine and dandy. Plus sometimes it tricks yourself into thinking you actually do have your shit together when you're really flailing.
This reminds me of the maxim "The best way to be happy is to simply decide to be happy" While initially this was confusing and nonsensical to me I've found it to be more or less true. Perspective plays a large role in how we approach and feel about things.