Does being an optimist make a difference?
Yes, that's what a new study from the USA shows. If we can turn the negative thoughts into positive ones, we also deal with problems in a completely different and simpler way. Problems are simply not allowed to occupy so much space in the lives of optimists. And then we can very likely live longer.
What is optimism?
Optimism is the same as being hopeful. It is having and keeping faith in the good in the people you surround yourself with, and it is the firm belief that you will succeed and achieve good results. This, for example, the belief that you actually win in Lotte or in another game. The difference here is just that if you lose, the loss doesn't matter as much. You will quickly move on to the next new goal if you are an optimist. If, on the other hand, you are a pessimist, then you allow yourself to be fixed in the negative and the not-so-good results, and you lose the movement and dynamism in life that optimists enjoy so much.
Further down you will get some tips to become happier and more optimistic every day.
can i learn to be an optimist?
Yes, and you can start right here. What do you see:
A glass half full or a glass half empty? If you are the type who often sees the glass as half empty, the study shows that it is because you rarely have high expectations for what is going to happen. If, on the other hand, you can see the glass half full, then you are already halfway to the goal, and that is a good start.
Why is optimism interesting?
That's because if you're an optimist, you get through everyday life, indeed life, more easily. You find it easier to say yes, and you are not afraid of it, because you believe that something good will happen. You sleep better at night because you worry less. And you also get better at choosing what is best for you, eg healthier food and healthier lifestyle habits in general. Body, mind and health are inextricably linked to a good life and, the study shows, a longer life.
You can read about the study here in English.
tips to become more optimistic
- Only listen to music that makes you really happy. Music has a huge impact on our mood and can evoke even the most distant happy memories. Music you love can also keep the not-so-good memories at bay.
- Dance to the music. It's actually OK, even if you think it sounds stupid and looks stupid.
- Sing along, loud! Start while you're alone if you're not sure if you can hit the notes (few of us can anyway)
- Go for a walk. Get out into nature, where the ceiling is high and the wind can blow away the negative thoughts. Just 20 minutes can make a huge difference to your mood.
- Praise yourself. Even if it's for small things. In fact, the less the better. You don't have to wait for others to tell you that you are capable. Once you get into the habit of praising yourself, you will automatically think more positively.
- Clean up your circle of friends. Who makes you the happiest and who do you like to be with the most? So be with them mostly.
