Go Ahead Be an Optimist! Find Something Positive In Difficult Situations
July 8, 2008 8:34 pm Coping, Stress
Research has shown those who are pessimistic have a higher risk of dying young.
Those who are more optimistic have better health, and better immune systems. Although pessimism may not be easy to change, you can tone it down with practice. No one expects or wants you to be a Pollyanna, trying to keep a positive attitude does not mean to tell yourself everything will be ok when you know it won’t.
It does not mean you bury your head in the sand! Rather, it is important to try to decrease negative thoughts and unnecessary pessimism. When you find yourself having such thoughts you must say, “stop” and force yourself to recognize other more positive possible outcomes. When I am upset over a situation I often ask myself “what is the worse that can happen here”. Many times you will realize that you can deal with even the worst.
Don’t blame yourself when things go wrong. Pessimists think all bad things will last forever and good ones will be gone soon. Optimists think the opposite. Optimists tend to use active coping skills, such as those discussed above.
When I find myself angry at the world due to contact with some despicable person, I remind myself about all the good people in the world. Stay away from the nay Sayers and those who are too narcissistic to think of anyone else but themselves.
Express your emotional reactions honestly so you can effectively deal with what’s bothering you.
Laugh more: Did you know that children laugh about 400 times a day, but adults only about 25 times. Instead of bristling at life’s annoyances, try to view them as amusing. Look for humor in difficult circumstances. Try to avoid sarcasm, jibes or laughter at others expense. Laughing at yourself (especially your pessimism) is great too. Laughter is truly good medicine. Laughing at yourself is especially good for you!
