Most people know that some people are optimists who have a positive outlook on life while others are more pessimistic and cynical. Everyone is different, some people automatically function in one of these two ways while others had to reprogram themselves to think in a certain way, which, in some cases, can be beneficial.
There are many studies that have illustrated that people with positive attitudes who are generally optimistic about life have better health and hold a better quality of life than those who are pessimistic. A positive attitude can help people feel more energetic, get fewer colds, flu, and other diseases. Similarly, they can even recover more quickly from illness and injury.
How Being An Optimist Can Help
There is a growing body of research that suggests that having a positive outlook on life can help to benefit your physical health. According to the National Institutes of Health, there is a link between an upbeat mental state and improved health. For example, there is some evidence that shows that having a positive mood can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk for heart disease, lead to a healthier weight, improve blood sugar levels, and lead to a longer life.
It should be noted people who have demonstrated are able to demonstrate more resiliency and are able to better hold on to positive emotions. There is growing evidence that suggests many techniques including meditation, cognitive therapy, and self-reflection can all help people develop the skills that they need to make positive, healthy changes.
Meanwhile, negative emotions play a role in creating fear and anxiety. These emotional and behavioral disorders can lead to a number of problems including major depressive disorder and suicidal thoughts. It is also important to note the connection between addiction and mental health.
How To Become More Positive
While the benefits of positive thinking may seem helpful, many life-long cynics may not know how to change their ways. But there are many subtle and small changes that you can make in your life and your thought processes to improve your outlook on life and yourself.
Avoid negatives
One of the best ways to make yourself become a more positive person is to try to minimize the negative thoughts that you have. Whether you are thinking in a bad way about yourself, others, your environment, or more, you need to be able to counter and change these thoughts when they begin. When you catch yourself in these moments of negative thoughts, you should try and mentally remind yourself to stop to try and break the cycle.
Humor
Everyone says laughter is the best medicine. Despite how cliche this saying is, it still holds some truth. If you are facing challenges, you should remain open to laughter, humor, and fun. It is important to recognize the potential humor in a situation It will help to lessen the stress that you may be feeling and brighten your outlook on yourself, and life in general. Sometimes, if you’re feeling down, watching a funny sitcom or reading jokes can help lead you to more positive thoughts.
Creativity
It is important to note that creativity is one trait that can be conducive with positive thinking. Just by engaging in creative activities, you can induce a feeling of positive emotions and psychological well-being that will help improve your mental health. Creating and expressing yourself can help to create lower stress levels and reduce anxiety.
Stay Consistent
Being optimistic doesn’t come naturally to all. If you are working on becoming a more happy and optimistic person, it is important to keep working on it. Try to stick with it for the long-term.
However you choose to change your mindset and thought process, it is important to at least attempt it.