The Influence Of Positivity: Fostering Optimism In Challenging Times
Just when we are sailing smoothly through life, something unexpected comes along and throws us into a downward spiral. Terrible accidents, job loss, illness, the challenges of aging, or the loss of a loved one all can hit us hard personally. On a broader scope, the age in which we live has more violent crime, unemployment, social and political unrest, and economic hardships, draining our ability to cope.
However, even in distressing circumstances, you can learn to approach life with optimism. Science has shown that people tend to bounce back when faced with significant life stressors.
The Difference Between Positivity and Optimism
Oxford Languages defines optimism as “Hopefulness and confidence about the future or the successful outcome of something.” In contrast, positivity is “The quality, character, or fact of being positive.”
In other words, optimism is anticipating positive outcomes in the future, whereas positivity is how we react to situations. An optimistic outlook helps us to foster positivity.
The Importance and Benefits of Optimism
Multiple studies were conducted to evaluate the links between optimism and psychological coping. The broaden-and-build theory (Fredrickson, 1998, 2001) found that optimistic feelings are helpful. “Experiences of positive emotions during times of stress prompt individuals to pursue novel and creative thoughts and actions.”
Research by Johns Hopkins expert Lisa R. Yanek, M.P.H., and her colleagues found that people prone to heart disease who had an optimistic viewpoint were “13% less likely than their negative counterparts to have a heart attack or other coronary event.”
There are many other benefits to being optimistic, including:
- Reduced Risk of Depression: Studies show that positive people have better mental health, lowering the risk and severity of depression.
- Healthier Lifestyle: Optimistic people typically make healthy choices such as eating nutritious foods, exercising, and getting sufficient sleep.
- Longer Lifespan: Those who are optimistic tend to have good health and live longer than pessimistic people.
- Better Coping: Optimistic people handle stress better and recognize that hardships are only temporary.
How Do I Become More Optimistic?
Adjust Your Mindset
A mindset is how people perceive themselves and their beliefs, contributing to their attitudes and behavior. “By understanding, adapting and shifting your mindset, you can improve your health, decrease your stress and become more resilient to life’s challenges.” You can learn to shift your mindset by practicing positive self-talk and daily positive affirmations.
- Positive Self-Talk: Self-talk is the inner discussion or thoughts we all have; our thoughts can be positive or negative. As humans, when faced with hardships, we tend to blame ourselves. For example, if you were laid off from work, you might think, “What did I do wrong?” or “I really messed up.” Instead, replace the negative thoughts with optimistic ones, such as “I have the skills to find an exciting new career.”
- Daily Positive Affirmations: Improve your self-esteem and positivity by practicing daily affirmations, which are things we say to ourselves to acknowledge our self-worth, such as: “I choose to be happy today.” or “I am optimistic.”
Socialize with Positive People
When you interact with optimistic people, you tend to become more optimistic. You can learn from other people and have a great support system. You can meet people by taking a class, joining a group or club, attending church, or volunteering.
- Practice Acceptance: Experiencing negative and positive emotions is part of life. Accepting and valuing everything that happens is essential as it will improve your coping ability during difficult times. An optimistic person will look at challenging times as lessons learned for the future.
Live a Healthy Lifestyle
Strive to eat unprocessed, nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and fish. Exercise for at least 30 minutes daily to reduce stress, improve strength, and lift your mood. Choose a form of exercise you enjoy, such as walking or riding a bicycle.
Laughter is Good Medicine
Laughter increases your oxygen-rich air intake, stimulating organs such as the heart and lungs. It releases endorphins, a “feel-good” hormone. Indulge in fun activities that make you laugh, and always try to find the humor in things.
Conclusion
Optimism is important for our mental and physical health and well-being. Being positive can reduce the risk of depression, improve our coping abilities, and contribute to a longer lifespan. Optimism is essential for our personal growth. When we are optimistic, we approach life’s challenging times with positivity and confidence.