A recent study published in Psychological Science found that those with more optimistic attitudes had better-functioning immune systems which, in turn, helped them ward off illnesses. Yet far too many of us assume that optimism is an inborn trait bestowed on a lucky few. If you are part of them, expert recommends the following:1. Pay attention to what makes you feel optimistic. Do you feel more positive when the collective mood is positive? The flowers are bright, the neighbors look happy, the dog's tail is wagging. Try to really tune in to what you're thinking and feeling in the moment.
2. Take control. Pessimists tend to think bad things happen to them because they simply have bad luck or because they don't have what it takes to be successful. Expert recommends aiming for a balance between accepting responsibility for some of the bad circumstances and taking action. Allow yourself to acknowledge those things that were beyond your control.
3. Do look at that glass as half full. If you're truly looking at a glass that's filled to the halfway mark, why not see it as half full? Choosing to focus on those "half-full" things might help you to realize that you don't need your cup to runneth over in order to feel optimistic.
4. Reframe "disasters." You need not to disabuse yourself after a "disaster." Everything will not be lasted forever, you just need to acknowledge that there will be other opportunities that, after a period of adjustment, could potentially be as challenging and satisfying.
5. Strive for real conversations. While making small talk is good for fostering social connections, having substantive interactions actually gives people a greater sense of well being, according to a March study from the University of Arizona. *Global*
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