Practicing Optimism for an Optimal State of Mind

Life can be seen with realism, optimism or pessimism. Research shows that most people, have a tendency to be either upbeat or pessimistic. Research also shows that optimism is linked to better performance, less stress, better health and longevity.

Even if you’re born with the negative inclinations, it is possible to train yourself to practive the optimistic view to some extent. Optimism and pessimism rely on different thinking styles to explain the events of life, such as successes and failures. These thought styles are also closely related to self-confidence and self-esteem.

Optimistic thinking : Optimists explain positive events as having occurred because of them (an internal cause). They see these events as indications that they are able to ensure that other positive things happen in the future and in other areas of their lives. Their self-confidence is enhanced by positive events.

Conversely, they tend to see negative events as not their fault (external cause). They see them as isolated and having nothing to do with other areas of their lives. Their self-confidence is not affected.

For an optimistic person, negative events come and go quickly (no dwelling), but positive events reinforce self-confidence and self-esteem, and confirm his ability to provoke good things as well as highlight the goodness in life. Learning to think in this way is beneficial for ourselves as well as those around us. Optimism is contagious, as is pessimism, so be conscious about your behavior,  knowing that there will be consequences (positive and negative).