The post is developed in partnership with BetterHelp.
We all know that positive thinking may improve our lives in many ways. Positive thinking has been linked to improved stress management, a stronger immune system, and a lower risk of heart disease, according to recent studies.
Choosing to focus on the positive instead of dwelling on the negative may not be a cure-all for your health, but it can help your general mental wellness. Fortunately, there are ways to improve your outlook on life.
Optimism’s Many Advantages
Having a positive outlook on life might have numerous health advantages. An optimistic outlook has been shown to reduce the chance of death from a number of serious conditions, including breast cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory diseases.
As a result, researchers have shown that optimists tend to be both physically and psychologically healthier than their gloomy peers. One study found that people who think more positively have better immunity, are more resilient to stress, and suffer from depression at a lower rate.
How To Be Less Pessimistic
Don’t Talk Down To Yourself
Self-talk consists of what you tell yourself in your head. You might think of this as your inner voice analyzing your actions and interactions with the people and things around you. Your self-esteem may decrease if your self-talk is dominated by pessimistic views.
Now that you’re aware of the problem, what steps can you take to make it stop? Starting to notice these ideas and actively working to change them can help you break the cycle.
Pause for a second when you begin to think negatively about yourself.
Positive thinking can be cultivated by paying attention to your inner dialogue. After noticing your negative self-talk, you may begin looking for ways to shift your patterns of thought and reframe how you view your own actions and results.
Count Your Blessings
You may want to keep a thankfulness diary in which you jot down the things in your life for which you are thankful. Writing down your appreciative thoughts has been shown in studies to increase your general well-being as well as your sense of optimism.
It’s good to take a few minutes every now and then to write down a few things that make you happy when you’re feeling bad. Your outlook on life will improve by engaging in this easy activity.
Laughter Is Medicine
It’s difficult to have a positive outlook when you’re surrounded by gloom and doom. It’s critical to keep a sense of humor even when things aren’t going well.
The simple act of seeing the possibility for humor in any situation can help alleviate tension and brighten your mood. You can boost your mood by finding ways to laugh, such as watching a hilarious sitcom or reading jokes online.
Don’t Stop Practicing
Negative thinking has no off button. Even if you’re a naturally optimistic person, it might be tough to think positively when presented with difficult situations. Sticking with a long-term goal is the most important part of any endeavor. Even if you’re prone to negative self-talk, you may find techniques to reduce it and create a more positive mindset.
Finally, do not be hesitant to solicit the assistance of close relatives, friends, or even a therapist. Learn more about the benefits of surrounding yourself with a support network here.
Call a friend or family member who you can rely on for positive support and comments if you begin to engage in negative thinking.
You must take care of yourself in order to think positively. It’s possible to cultivate a positive mindset by engaging in activities you enjoy and spending time with individuals who are positive.
