Do you tend to see the glass as half full or half empty? Are you always thinking of the best case scenario or on the other hand, the worst case scenario? If you chose the latter of the two in each question then you may think it’s nearly impossible to stay optimistic when life throws curveballs your way. And you know what? Sometimes being optimistic sounds easier than it is. Luckily, there are some tricks to incorporating optimism into your daily life.
Practicing optimism is something that can transform your way of thinking and how you approach situations. Some people are just naturally optimistic, but it is also a skill that you can develop. Additionally, being optimistic doesn’t mean that you ignore life’s stressors, but instead, it allows you to approach stress and anxiety in constructive ways. Optimism and the power of positive thinking happen to be one of the best stress and anxiety reduction techniques.
The Benefits of Optimism in Mental Health Treatment
You may assume that mental health only has to do with what’s going on in your head. But it can also be affected by your physical health. Coincidentally, there are plenty of mental and physical benefits to practicing optimism.
Here are some examples:
- Healthier lifestyle. The more optimistic you are, the better your outlook on life will be which in turn, will help you feel more motivated.
- Greater flexibility. When you believe that everything will work out in the end, it’s easier to go with the flow.
- Enhanced problem-solving skills. You’ll be too busy looking on the bright side of things rather than how things went wrong.
Additionally you may experience:
- Better response to negative information.
- More happiness
- Better coping skills
- Fulfilling relationships
When it comes to mental health especially, people who are optimistic experience less depression and anxiety, or their optimism can lessen relapses. Additionally, when it comes to feelings of happiness, optimism provides a sense of hope and positivity about the future which in turn, can make you more satisfied and content in the present moment.
How to be more optimistic
Want to be optimistic but don’t know where to start exactly? Here are 14 little things you can start putting into your daily routine.
- Write in a gratitude journal
- Accept what you can and cannot control
- Surround yourself with positive people
- Disconnect from the news
- Limit your social media consumption
- Acknowledge negative things that happen
- Imagine a better future
- Change your thinking
- Find a positive role model
- Don’t dwell on the past
- Practice mindfulness
- Write daily affirmations to yourself
- Stop comparisons
- Do things that make you happy
Learning Stress Reduction and Anxiety Techniques
If you’re used to being stuck in a cycle of pessimism, it may be more difficult to start incorporating optimism. At Harmony Bay Wellness, our therapists and staff will help you learn the tools that will work for you and that you need to start thinking more positively. For more information on our services and treatments, contact us today at 855.857.6050. The world is tough enough, let’s get you on your way to a more optimistic outlook on life.