Its harder still when the people around you are constantly talking about all those negative things.
But you don’t have to join ranks with the pessimists.
In fact, it’s extra important to be optimistic when there’s negativity surrounding you.
M-imagephotography / Getty Images
Learn how infusing some optimism into your life can benefit your health.
Benefits of Optimism
Choosing to beoptimisticoffers surprising benefits.
Click below to listen now.
You have choices in your life.
you’ve got the option to spend the day cleaning or spend the day reading.
you might go out to dinner or cook at home.
you’re free to have coffee with a friend or you’re free to blow them off.
I am not sure Im able to help."
You may also consider limiting your media intake.
Recognize Negative Thinking
Its OK to acknowledge that bad things might happen.
After all, ignoring reality isnt helpful.
In fact, being realistic could be the key to doing your best.
If, however, you have an excessively negative outlook, you might sabotage your chances of getting hired.
Your lack of confidence may be the reason you dont get hired.
When youre thinking negatively, take a moment to assess how realistic your thoughts truly are.
Reframing your overly negative thoughts into more realistic statements can help you maintain a healthy dose of optimism.
Once a day,share positive feedbackwith someone.
At home, praise your child for how hard they worked on their math homework.
Or, tell your partner how much you appreciate them.
Making other people feel positive has lasting effects on your own life.
With that, dont forget to bestow positivity on yourself.
Before bed, think about what you did during the day.
Consider a serious challenge you have in your life right now and think about possible positive outcomes.
Its hard to be optimistic withoutfeeling gratitudetoward those that helped you get to that happy place.
While thinking about how grateful you are is helpful, sharing your gratitude with others provides added benefits.
Youll spread a bit of joy and cheer when you tell others how much you appreciate them.
If possible, deliver that letter in person.
Start with one small step.
2014;186(4):E150E156.
2011;42(3):371378. doi:10.1016/j.jbtep.2011.02.012
McNaughton-Cassill ME.The news media and psychological distress.Anxiety Stress Coping.
2001;14(2):193-211. doi:10.1080/10615800108248354
Carver CS, Scheier MF, Segerstrom SC.Optimism.Clin Psychol Rev.
Shepperd JA, Pogge G, Howell JL.Assessing the consequences of unrealistic optimism: Challenges and recommendations.Consciousness and Cognition.
