Are you a glass-half-empty or half-full person? The origin of this concept came as part of a famous proverb that asks how a glass with 50% water and 50% air is viewed. If you see the glass as half-full, then you are an optimistic person, and those who see a half-empty glass tend to have a pessimistic worldview.
Studies have shown that optimistic people have significantly less risk of developing or dying from health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, infection, or respiratory diseases. It also greatly influences one's much-neglected mental health, which is essential for overall healthy living. Optimists also are the people who are the happiest in their job, with higher levels of satisfaction and contribute to maintaining healthy relationships both in work and personal life.
According to life coaching experts, here are some simple yet effective ways to maintain a positive attitude.
Focus On Good Things
Challenging situations are inevitable, even for the richest man on earth. However, when faced with such events, make it a habit to focus on the good things, no matter how small or irrelevant they may seem. If you closely look and observe, you can always find the proverbial silver lining in every cloud.
For example, if someone cancels a plan you prepared for, think about how it gives you extra time to do something you always didn't find time for or even spend the time to relax or do something you enjoy.
Show Gratitude
Apart from the moral and ethical values grattitude upholds, it can also reduce stress, improve self-esteem, and help foster resilience in difficult times. Think of small moments, people, or things that you are grateful for or those that bring some form of comfort and happiness. Try to express gratitude for something at least once a day. This can be as simple as thanking a co-worker for heping out with a task or your partner for doing the dishes.
Keep A Gratitude Journal
We all have many things to be grateful for. Reminding these things daily, even if small, is a beautiful way to develop a positive attitude and maintain the same energy throughout the day. So, once a day, try to have a journal to jot down at least three things you're grateful for in life. It can be as simple as having a loving family, seeing a cute dog on the road, or even exciting life events, like getting accepted for a job you applied for. It helps you focus on the good things daily and distracts your thoughts from developing negativity.
Spend Time With Positive People
Although it may sound surprising, both negative and positive energy are contagious. Have you noticed someone in a bad mood can bring almost everyone in the space down? Likewise, a positive person can have the same effect. So consider spending more time with positive people who can help you improve your self-esteem, knowledge, and wisdom and increase your vision to reach your goals through their experiences.
Network with people who bring value to your life and those who can lift you and let you see the bright side of life. You can also find a life coach who can help you enhance an optimistic attitude and an overall positive outlook in life.
Identify Your Areas Of Negativity
We are our best critics, so take a good look at different areas of life that you feel negative or unhappy about. If you are unsure, then consider asking a friend, a colleague, or someone within the family who can give you clear and unbiased insights.
Try to understand what is causing negativity and dissatisfaction in life. Then note them down and develop solutions to overcome them. Start by tackling one area at a time. A life coach can also help you self-evaluate yourself in this regard and provide practical solutions to overcome negativity in a sustainable manner.