10 easy, everyday ways to be more optimistic

Keep your glass half-full with practical advice from doctors, researchers, and optimistic women.

Daily life can be extremely stressful, and the unhealthy ways we often deal with stress can lead to health problems, relationship conflicts, and even feelings of hopelessness.

While studies have shown that optimistic people live longer and enjoy better health than pessimists, it’s important to note that optimism comes more naturally to some personality types than to others. Some of us have to work a little harder to look on the bright side and reap those happiness benefits. So we interviewed several experts and everyday women to glean their best tips on becoming—and staying—optimistic.

1. Turn off the news

That’s not to say you should never watch the news. But you need to give yourself substantial breaks from it. So consider throwing on something else that makes you happy, whether it’s classical music or lighthearted movies on Netflix.

Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, explains: “People awaken and reach for their smartphone to get news headlines. They may engage in political discussions on social media or listen to news in their car. At work, they walk in to news about their company. Then they leave and turn on the news as they head home. They may flip on the TV to catch the news before bed. No wonder they’re less optimistic! Remember, good news doesn’t get ratings … and what you choose to view will impact your mood.”

WE RECOMMEND: 5 steps to conquer negative thinking

2. Surround yourself with optimists

Have you ever had lunch with a friend and felt much worse afterwards? Moods—whether they’re good or bad—can spread like wildfire. So be careful who you spend time with, and how much. Helen Odessky, Psy.D., a psychologist and author of Stop Anxiety From Stopping You, says, “Get together with the most optimistic person you know—optimism is contagious.”

Plan lunch with a bubbly friend, or get coffee with your cousin who radiates joy. Julia Pannell says her favorite way to feel optimistic is “holding hands with my hubby and just laughing together.” That sounds exactly like what the doctor prescribed. And speaking of the giggles …

Click on the link to view full list: http://forher.aleteia.org/articles/10-easy-everyday-ways-be-more-optimistic-happiness-tips-fight-pessimistic-thinking/