Optimists see the world differently.
Let’s face it, losing doesn’t feel right, and it certainly doesn’t bolster our self-confidence. So how would you respond if you’ve lost or failed at something? Is it possible to feel discouraged and look for an excuse not to participate in the next challenge?
Taking on a pessimistic view may be the easiest way to deal with the pain of failure, but it won’t help you grow. Although not easy, taking the optimistic route would yield a more challenging and fulfilling life in the future.
Why nurture an optimist’s point of view?
Optimism has always been linked to having strong morale and a positive outlook in life toward work, sport, and occupational success. Undoubtedly, being optimistic about life leads to popularity, good health and even a long life of freedom from anxiety and depression.
However, on the flip side, the rate of depression and pessimism has never been higher. It can affect anyone at any age; furthermore, anxiety and depression are now common diagnoses among teenagers as young as thirteen.
Optimists expect the best.
Let’s look at the defining characteristics of an optimist. For starters, optimists always expect the best in everything. Optimists see events differently even though they are confronted with precisely the same hard knocks as pessimists. They tend to see these misfortunes as temporary and confined to this one time only.
Having a plan for dealing with these challenges becomes the focus of the optimist. It’s a known fact that optimistic people use what could be referred to as ‘positive reinterpretation.’ For example, they would reframe the negative experience in a way that helps them learn and add value to their growth.
They are unmoved by bad situations and perceive it as a challenge to always do better. Furthermore, the optimist’s language is one of positive reinforcement and self-encouragement. They tend to use phrases like, “what a great opportunity I have,” “what a great challenge,” “I can overcome,” “I’m confident in the process,” etc.
Optimists are popular
Optimists are proactive and less dependent on others for their happiness. People who are confident and sure don’t need to control or manipulate others. They usually attract people to themselves. Their optimistic view of life can become contagious and influence people around them. They persevere, don’t give up quickly, and are patient with the process of inching their way forward to achieve their goals.
Optimists live healthier longer lives.
Medical research has shown that gratitude and a positive outlook in life can increase the body’s immune system. A robust immune system helps the body be more resilient to disease and sickness. The optimist’s health is usually good; they exercise regularly, eat healthy food, and get plenty of sleep.
Optimists age well, are freer than most people from the usual ills of middle age and tend to outlive those prone to negative thinking. So, why not choose to be an optimist today? And think positively towards a more fulfilled and healthier life.
