Health New by: Rita Sullivan
Studies show a strong relationship between optimism and positive physical and mental health outcomes compared to pessimism. Optimism is a tendency to expect good things in the future. Pessimism is correlated with excessive somatic complaints. Experts have advanced various explanations as to why optimism impacts our physical and mental health. For example, people who are optimistic cope better with life’s challenges and are less likely to experience stress than those with less positive attitudes. Optimists are more likely to eat well and exercise and they often have stronger networks of family and friends who can provide assistance. The emergence of Positive Psychology is consistent with this view as instead of focusing on problems it focuses on attributes like creativity, wisdom courage, and spirituality. We can cultivate an optimistic attitude and should!