LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE
Tap the power of optimism
BY:MARY ELIZABETH TERZELLA
Optimists believe that bad things don't last forever and expect good things to happen in the future. Their positive attitude allows them to cope better with obstacles. Pessimists, on the other hand, allow setbacks to cast a shadow over their lives; the future looks bleak, so they feel hopeless and helpless. If you tend to look on the dark side, these simple strategies can help you turn your outlook around:
Count your blessings. Research shows that people who regularly give thanks are more optimistic than the thankless. Grateful reflection helps you focus on what is going right and savor the good in life, even during bad times, explains gratitude researcher Robert Emmons, PhD, professor of psychology at the University of California at Davis. For a gratitude adjustment, take a daily timeout to think about five things you appreciate, no matter how small, suggests Dr. Emmons.
Celebrate small successes. Focus on the five tasks you crossed off your to-do list—not the 10 you wanted to accomplish. Thinking that you're on the right track makes it easier to imagine that tomorrow will be a better day.
Look for the silver lining. To develop a brighter outlook, you need to find the good in a bad situation. Caregiving, for example, may have taught you patience or given you new appreciation for friends whose emotional support has eased your burden. For others, it could lead to spiritual growth and the discovery of inner strength they never knew they possessed.
Do a reality check. "We typically worry about issues that may have unpleasant but not terrible consequences," says Robert L. Leahy, PhD, author of The Worry Cure. To prevent yourself from blowing problems out of proportion, tell yourself: "This is not a problem because.... Chances are, you'll discover that the gloomy possibilities you are imaging are not rooted in reality." The more realistic your view of the situation, the more optimistic you'll feel about the outcome.
Distract yourself. If your mind is stuck on negative thoughts, shake free of their grim grip by taking a brisk walk, reading a juicy novel or calling a friend (no venting allowed!). Or simply try singing a line from a favorite song over and over in your head.