In life, there are always choices. Some are trivial – like what to wear to an event – and some more important with far-reaching consequences.
One of the most important choices you make each day is the attitude you’ll have.
There are two general attitudes you can hold: Pessimism and optimism.
Pessimists have poorer long-term results than optimists. Research shows that optimists are healthier, happier, and more successful. Knowing this, why would you choose anything else? Why would you not want to think positive and be happy?
If you’ve been accused of being pessimistic, rethink your perspective. Optimism is indisputably a more enjoyable way to live.
Here are ten of the many advantages that optimism has over pessimism:
1. You’ll excel.
When learning a new skill, studies have shown that optimistic people tend to overestimate their current skill level. However, those that are optimistic ultimately learn a new skill at a higher level. Those that most accurately judge their abilities at the beginning fail to learn as well as those that are more optimistic.
2. Strengthen your health.
Optimistic people have been shown to have healthier blood sugar and cholesterol levels. They’re also more likely to exercise and less likely to smoke. Optimists carry less body fat, too.
3. Lower stress.
When you expect good things to happen, there are fewer reasons to experience stress. In fact, when things go wrong, optimistic people are more likely to view the mishap as an opportunity for something bigger and better to happen.
4. Uplift your mood.
Your attitude affects all aspects of your life. Adopting an optimistic perspective might be the easiest way to lift your attitude.
5. Make more friends.
Others appreciate your optimism. When you have positive expectations, you positively affect the mood of those around you. You’ll find yourself with more friends and have greater influence over others. The people you like the most are those that make you feel the best. Your optimism benefits others.
6. It’s the most effective option.
Pessimism doesn’t have much to offer. It’s damaging to your health, mood, and results. Others avoid pessimists. Why would you choose to be anything other than optimistic? What other intelligent option do you have?
7. Optimists dare themselves to be great.
Pessimists are too afraid to try new things or take the risks that are necessary for higher levels of success. Optimists are in a better position to pursue and achieve greatness.
8. Boost your immune system.
Or maybe pessimism suppresses your immune system. Either way, you’ll get sick less frequently if you have a positive outlook on life. You might even spend less at the doctor’s office.
9. Live longer.
You’re more likely to live to be 100 years old if you’re optimistic. Interviews with centenarians consistently demonstrate an optimistic attitude about the future. Optimism is one of the most enjoyable ways to extend longevity. An optimistic attitude might allow you to spend time with your great grandchildren.
10. Make smarter decisions under pressure.
This can be helpful at work and in your personal life. When you deal with stress more effectively, you can make wiser decisions. When you expect a negative outcome, your decisions will be mostly defensive in nature.
Closing thoughts…
Optimism has a lot to offer.
You’re hurting your future, yourself, and those around you by being pessimistic. Optimism is free and it feels good.
Your health, success, and mental health are all enhanced when you hold a positive viewpoint. Let go of your pessimism and view the world from an enthusiastic perspective. You’ll be glad you did!
I want to hear from you!
What are your thoughts on the benefits of optimism? Please join the discussion and leave a comment below.
Comments 41
This would be a good post to print and keep by the desk or place you spend a lot of time. I like that you added ‘realistic,’ because I have seen people set themselves up with unrealistic expectations, and when the letdown comes, it is harder for them to be optimistic. All wonderful points!
I try to be an optimist, especially around pessimists. It’s hard.
Thanks for the tips.
Being optimistic have made possible some of the most amazing situations of my life. 😀
Thanks for sharing this and reminding me to think like the glass is half full kind of thoughts.
I am continuing to work on being optimistic. I feel much better since doing this. I spend alot of time during the day talking to God and asking him to help me with this. This article was great. God Bless
It’s all about the small victories right?
I always love the optimistic side. I appreciate your story line and I love reading your blog.
I agree, it’s how you look at your life and how optimistic you are about everything that determines how happy you are generally.if you are pessimistic all the time it just brings you down.
I am an optimistic person and aim at having high values in this life and reaching for them.I find your blog and the words “realistic optimism” really inspiring.Thanks for this because I also believe optimism can help other people who are down on their luck. it renews their motivation. I think it’s a little bit contagious too.
I think it is an interesting posting!
This is one of the greatest posts I ever read if not the greatest!
I like the term “realistic optimism”. I’ll definitely use that!
All this is so true.
I love this post. It’s amazing what the power of positive thinking can do.
I 100% agree!! I am convinced that finding 10 mins a day to meditate increases our optimism and helps us reach our goals faster. Stress can completely destroy anything we try to do.
I have to get my daughter to read this, she is so pessimistic!
this is so true! over the past year i have made changes to become more optimistic and agree on many of these points!
I believe you create your reality, starting with your perspective.. This article is great, thank you! My mother always said there is absolutely no use in stressing about things you have no control over.
Love the post! Tangible optimism through personal responsibility for your happiness and growth.
I agree. Great post. You won’t get anywhere in life without optimism. You have to work hard and look at the end game with passion, dedication, and optimism. Besides optimistic people live longer, that’s just science…
This is an awesome list. Really great to show all of those opposite people in your life!
Very helpful it’s hard to be optimistic sometimes.
Great list. I tend to be optimistic, while my child is very pessimistic. I’m going to show her this list.
I am still having some trouble in this area of my life. I am not enjoying it to the fullest. I keep coming back to your suggestions. I really enjoy your articles. Thank you so much for sharing
Yes, yes and YES! Ever since graduating college back in 2014, I’ve found myself becoming more and more of an optimism. I’ve found when you think positively, positive things tend to come your way.
I have a hard time being optimistic sometimes. It is a difficult thing for me. This article really helped. You have so much great information you offer us. Thank you so much for sharing
I wish my children were more optimistic!
These are helpful. It can be hard to be optimistic some times.
What great suggestions! Keep up the good (and hard) work!
I have to work at being an optimist. After reading this post, I think I’ll work harder at it.
I’ve always been told I’m a little too optimistic.i find that people want me to be more realistic, but sometimes id rather live in my optimism and have a good day then to have people point out things that could go wrong.
It is so much better to be optimistic. I try to do this every day. Being around pessimists tends to bring me down also. Thank you for sharing this great article
This is such an insightful post. There really are benefits to be reaped from certain traits. I think that’s where the saying goes that not everything is black and white.
I used to be an optimist, but now as I am getting older I have been finding myself stuck in between. I am working on trying to be more positive. I know it help me a lot with stress.
Hmmm…. I’m not a pessimist at all, but not a complete optimist either. Maybe I’m an optimistic realist? I try to see the best possible path based on all the available options.
Both my husband and I struggle with being pessimists. We always question our abilities and how intelligent we really are. Seeing some of the benefits of being an optimist makes me want to fight harder to look on the bright side. Maybe if I work on my self-confidence a little I will see a world of changes in my life.
I definitely consider myself an optimist instead of a pessimist. Life if too short to be grumpy and negative all of the time! I’d never really thought about all of the benefits until now. Great information!
Great tips
I love this!! Your outlook on life can make a huge difference in how your day and life goes! I know it really helps my stress level if I can try to look at things in a positive manner instead of dwelling on the negative parts.
great post