Do you see the glass half-full or half-empty? In this industry, careful optimism is very important because it gets us through those times of famine. Another benefit to being optimistic is that it can actually improve your health. Jane E. Brody, blogger for the New York Times, tells us how:
A more classical definition from the Mayo Clinic: “Optimism is the belief that good things will happen to you and that negative events are temporary setbacks to be overcome.
In one study, adults shown to be pessimists based on psychological tests had higher death rates over a 30-year period than those who were shown optimistic. No doubt, the optimists were healthier because they were more inclined to take good care of themselves.
It’s important not to neglect the power of positive thinking. Both Dr. Segerstrom and the Mayo researchers recommend taking a few minutes at the end of each day to write down three positive things that happened that day, ending the day on an upbeat note.
Avoid negative self-talk. Instead, dwell on the positive aspects of a situation.
Regardless of the nature of your work, identify some aspect of it that is personally fulfilling. If your job is scrubbing floors, stand back and admire how shiny and clean they look.
Surround yourself with positive, upbeat people. Focus on situations that you can control, and forget those you can’t. I would also suggest using voting power, money or communication skills to forward a goal that is beyond your personal control.
So if you’re having a bad day, take note of these tips and try to think about something positive to get you through it. What positive things have happened to you today?
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