Posted by Alanna Fincke
Do you view the glass half-full instead of half-empty? If so, get ready for the rewards: Studies have shown that joyful types are more likely to lead longer, healthier lives than those who expect the worst. But it doesn't matter whether you came into this world with a sunny outlook. You can foster upbeat thinking by shining the light on the positive at every turn.
This weekend, practice optimism using the following steps—and enjoy the happy consequences.
- Focus on the Big Picture. Most of us are well fed, clothed, sheltered, and protected. Our daily luxuries—clean water, air-conditioning, indoor plumbing, safe food—have become so commonplace that we cease to notice them. Wake up to your abundance and you’ll automatically feel thankful.
- Connect. Make friends with happy people. Since both pessimism and optimism are catching, you're more likely to feel optimistic if you surround yourself with optimists.
- Read About Optimists. What makes them tick? Where do they get hope in hard times? Explore the lives of well-known optimists, and you'll start to see how an invisible feeling can transform into visible deeds and accomplishments.
- Be Generous. Give to charity. Tip well. Offer to help friends and family members in need and try volunteer work. When you bring more generosity into your life, you also invite its cousins, compassion and love.
- Go on a Media Fast. Next week, take a break from the steady stream of bad news. You may find it invigorating to sidestep the depressing effects of daily tragedy—and easier to have optimism about the state of the world. Immerse Yourself in Nature. The incredible complexity of living systems and the upward, evolutionary trajectory of life can stir optimism in anyone.
- Cultivate Spirituality. Countless studies show that people who follow a spiritual path generally live longer and enjoy a lower incidence of most major diseases than people who don't. You might find spiritual connection in a particular religion, a form of meditation, a physical discipline such as yoga or tai chi, tending an herb garden, singing in a choir, or surfing Saturday mornings at dawn.
Once you achieve a great state of happiness, learn how to Protect Your Mood.
Question: What things do you do to boost your spirits?
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