Positive thinking helps with stress management. It likewise lowers levels of distress and depression and equips people with coping skills for trying times. It allows an approach to unpleasant scenarios in a more constructive way. It fosters better psychological and physical well-being and comes with various health benefits: greater resistance to the common cold, improved cardiovascular health and increased lifespan.
Optimism takes time and does not happen overnight. The medical editors and industry specialists of Mayo Clinic, a non-profit organization committed to clinical practice, education and research and expert- and whole-person care to people in need of healing, have shared some tips to be more positive. For a bright and more hopeful year ahead, Benilde Well-Being Center (BWC) of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde have compiled these reminders.
Here are six pointers for an optimistic 2022:
Identify areas to change. First, it is crucial to recognize particular factors in your life that make you feel pessimistic. Is it your relationships, environment, the daily commute, school or work?
Check yourself. Try to find a way to put a constructive twist on your negative thoughts. Take a pause and evaluate your inner feelings.
Start and practice positive self-talk. Follow one simple rule: Do not say anything to yourself that you would not say to anyone else. Be gentle and grateful. Instead of saying “I’ve never done it before”, think “It’s an opportunity to learn something new”. Do not entertain self-criticism — give everything a chance and always be open to new perspectives.
Be open to humor. Amid the challenges, give yourself permission to smile, laugh and be happy. Seek humor and find the littlest of joys in everyday mundane happenings.
Follow a healthy lifestyle. Engage in physical activities and exercise to positively affect mood. Follow a healthier diet to fuel both mind and body. Adapt stress management techniques and hobbies. Optimistic people do not excessively smoke or drink alcohol.
Surround yourself with positive people. Helpful advice and insightful feedback come from reliable and dependable support systems. These are the people around you — whether it be a significant other, family, friends or workmates.