The Pearls of Life:
101 Simple Ways to Health and Happiness
Be an
Optimist
Suppose that on a
day when you want to go for a hike, the sky is cloudy instead of sunny
as forecasted. A pessimist would consider this an ominous sign of an
impending storm and stay inside fretting about the weather. An optimist
may use this as an opportunity to take pictures of nature when diffused
light brings out the richness of colors. So the optimist packs a camera
and adequate rain gear for a fulfilling hike.
As an optimist, you
do not necessarily ignore that the glass is half-empty while rejoicing
that the glass is half-full. You simply do not let the negative aspects
of a situation overwhelm you. You attempt to improve the negatives
and/or consider them in your planning. Maximizing the positives,
correcting and improving the negatives, and accepting the things you
cannot change will help you achieve the best possible outcome.
No wonder having an
optimistic outlook is associated with longevity and a happier life.
- Separate the
positives and the negatives when you assess any given situation (your
plan for the weekend, your work, your relationships, your life).
- Maximize the
positive.
- Assess the
negative. Change and improve what is changeable. Accept the
unchangeable.
- Make the best out
of the situation.