Optimism
Image Source [https://pixabay.com/photos/chrysanthemums-yellow-flowers-bloom-5646526]
Have you ever met someone who seemed to always bounce back and even thrive in the face of adversity? Do you wonder how they do this? A quality these persons seem to always possess is that of optimism. Optimists tend to have a positive attitude, a sense of hope and confidence that there is the possibility of meaningful change even when it doesn’t seem warranted.
However, optimism goes far beyond just having only blind faith and positivity. Rather, one must put in the work to achieve the steps needed to accomplish one’s goals. It seems like no matter how dreary the situation is, optimists seem to be proactive, facing it head on.
However, what about those persons who may not necessarily be optimists? A person may have faced persistent setbacks, the weight of mundane responsibilities taking its toll or even other stressors that caused them to lose optimism or lack optimism as they progress in life. The list of reasons a person may lack optimism can be extensive. However, can one cultivate the skill of optimism? Is it even possible? While some people seem to have an innate capacity to be optimists, optimism is said to be a skill that can be cultivated.
Here are some ways I’ve found helpful to develop optimism:
Finding purpose- When we find a sense of purpose and belongingness, we foster a feeling of fulfilment. I’ve found that finding what my core values are, that is, who I am and what I stand for gave me the needed direction to hone the skills necessary for a more purposeful and fulfilled life.
Practice mindfulness- Mindfulness is described as the ability to be fully aware of one’s situation and surroundings at any moment. Meditation and gratitude journaling were some ways I practiced mindfulness. It fostered a sense of peace, calm and appreciation creating a more realistic and positive outlook of my life.
Positive Feedback- Whenever I completed a task (no matter how small) I always ensured to congratulate myself, being my own little inner cheerleader. I found after a while, there was a shift in mindset, where I subconsciously incorporated positive feedback in my thoughts.
Reduce consumption of news- A key aspect in cultivating optimism was limiting how often I chose to read and listen to the news. Constant streaming of distressing news significantly impacted my mental wellbeing, also dampening my outlook on life. I started setting time limits to be well informed of the news from reputable sources.
Please share your thoughts and let's reflect on the following questions. You are welcome to answer any or all:
🌱 When was the last time you felt optimistic?
🌱 Do you think optimism is a skill that can be developed?
🌱 If so, how do you think you can cultivate optimism in your life?
Optimism is one of the skills found in the fifth Dimension (Acting- Enabling Change) of the Inner Developmental Goals.
I appreciate your time and patience in reading this post. Please do have a beautiful day. 🌻
@GentleHealingInitiative
We often talk about optimism and its benefits but how to cultivate optimism is a topic rarely talked about. It is refreshing to see some practical tips
I agree that optimism can be developed. I found reading self-help books to help the most in doing so!
@GentleHealingInitiative hank you for this post (along with correspondingly cheerful image), it was very thought provoking and as Hope suggested, provides very practical advice on something which may otherwise seem ephemeral and difficult to achieve or sustain.
In regards to your three questions;
I always try to demonstrate optimism, but I realise that that is not the same as being optimistic. A desire to be and to show that to others, rather than something yet felt.
After reading your post I am more convinced that optimism can be developed as a skill. If it could not, then why was my heart elated on reading the words in your post? I wish to believe it is because something subconscious realises and agrees. Follow the tricks, listen to the tips, reach the goodies.
And to the third question, as i recognised some of the things you suggest as things i already do, I think staying the course and keep going. Skills take practice. Minds can be flexible, but maybe sometimes need gentle nudges in the right direction. I also think appreciating the successes of others may foster optimism; if one sees it can happen in one case, it can be inferred it can happen in many cases, and from that it is just a gentle stroll towards thinking it can happen in MY case.
Cheers again for the insightful piece. Go team you.
