Do you consider yourself to be an optimist? We got to thinking about this recently when we received a message from a lifelong friend. He talked about all the blessings in his life, in fact, his words were overflowing about living life abundantly. All this in spite of the fact that his wife has dementia, and he has started taking drugs for a newly discovered cancer.

How is it that some people are able to maintain a positive outlook, even in the midst of serious, negative things happening in their lives? Let’s explore what optimism is and why it’s such a powerful force in life.

Studies show that optimists typically are happier, healthier, and more successful in life. While it’s easy to be brought down by negativity in today’s world, maintaining an optimistic outlook has been shown to provide tremendous benefits across all areas of life. As the Dalai Lama once said, “Choose to be optimistic, it feels better.” With some conscious effort to cultivate positive thinking, you can tap into the incredible power of optimism.

We’ve all heard the question, “Is the glass half full or half empty”. We had a very successful uncle who looked at the glass as neither ‘half full’ or ‘half empty’, but as overflowing. He lived his life optimistically, choosing to focus on the positives, not the negatives.

What exactly is optimism? It’s the tendency to look at the bright side of any situation and expect positive outcomes, even in difficult circumstances. Optimists have an upbeat mentality and see setbacks as temporary occurrences or opportunities for growth. The Mayo Clinic defines optimism as “the attitude associated with expectations of a favorable life course.” Optimism isn’t denying reality, but rather choosing a hopeful and constructive way of interpreting it.

The health advantages of optimism are substantial. Optimists tend to live longer and have healthier lives than pessimists according to numerous research studies. In fact, when it comes to longevity, studies have shown that being an optimist has a greater positive impact on longevity than even diet and exercise!

A study from Harvard found that “optimistic people had a significantly reduced risk of developing heart disease over the next eight years.” Optimists are also less likely to experience chronic diseases, depression, and other mental illnesses compared to pessimists. The reason? Optimists are more proactive about seeking preventative healthcare, manage stress better, and avoid unhealthy behaviors.

In the words of entrepreneur and motivational speaker Jim Rohn, “An active and unrelenting optimism is absolutely essential to great achievement in life.” Maintaining a positive outlook has been linked to greater professional success and higher incomes. Optimists are typically hard workers, persistent, and skilled at finding solutions instead of dwelling on problems. Their mindset prepares them to spot opportunities and take calculated risks that lead to bigger rewards.

One inspiring example of optimism prevailing against all odds is the story of basketball legend Michael Jordan. Cut from his high school varsity team as a sophomore, Jordan recalled thinking “I just want to prove to myself that I can be the best basketball player I can be.” His fierce optimism and determination drove him to practice relentlessly, making the varsity team the following year and eventually becoming one of the greatest athletes of all time.

Optimists also foster stronger interpersonal relationships. Their positive energy and ability to see the best in people makes them likable and uplifting to be around. An optimistic outlook enables more happiness, gratitude, empathy, and trust within relationships. As entrepreneur Simon Sinek said, “Optimists give employees faith that they can make it through tough times.”

While some people seem to be instinctively optimistic, thankfully it’s an outlook that can be learned and developed over time. Here are some tips for cultivating optimism:

• Challenge negative thoughts – Be conscious of pessimistic self-talk and actively replace it with positive alternatives.
• Use optimistic language – Speak in hopeful terms like “I’ll try my best” instead of “I’ll never be able to do it.”
• Surround yourself with optimists – Positivity is contagious! Spend time with upbeat people.
• Practice gratitude – Make a daily habit of appreciating the good things in your life.
• Look for opportunities in failures – View setbacks as chances to learn and grow stronger.
• Take care of yourself – Optimism is easier when you’re physically healthy, well-rested and unstressed.

What about you? Are you an optimist or a pessimist? In a world filled with difficulties and negativity, optimism provides an empowering counterbalance. As Winston Churchill eloquently stated, “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” By proactively adopting an optimistic outlook, you gain powerful mind-body benefits along with the courage to persist through challenges and create the life you truly want.

Chanhassen MN residents, Doug and Lynn Nodland are success coaches and owners of The Balance Center in Excelsior. Contact them at WeCare@TheBalanceCenter.com

© Doug and Lynn Nodland 2024 Articles and videos may be shared in their entirety with attribution.