There are people who are born to be naturally optimistic and happy. No matter what storm comes into their lives, they always think positively. But there are also people who are prone to negative thinking that can sometimes lead to something that is detrimental. However, people can always turn the negative into positive and the best method to do this is through learned optimism.
As the name suggests, learned optimism is learning how to turn negative emotions and thoughts into positive. Through this method, you can learn how to see the good things in the face of adversities and unleash your potentials in the process. Real life dictates that we cannot totally get rid of our negativities but with optimism we can learn to control our negative thoughts and gradually convert them into positive thoughts and emotions.
photo credit: h.koppdelaney
Although we are dealing with thoughts and emotions that are oftentimes difficult to control, we can apply strategies and techniques to increase our optimism and shun from negativism. You can start exploring some relaxation exercises as well as learn about how to cope with negative emotions such as depression, anger, and hatred among others. There are methods where you will be able to recognize opportunities amidst negative conditions.
Learned optimism is something that everyone should consider. With it, you will be able to control your negative thoughts, emotions that can lead to destructive behavior and actions. You can channel your energy towards positive thoughts and emotions and become more productive in the process. More importantly, you will become a happier person with a positive outlook in life.
This is easier said than done, so if you’re struggling I recommend you seek help to break free from negative thinking.
Hey Marynn, I just want to encourage you to hang in there. It is incredibly tough to manage your thoughts when you’re in a situation like you are, but if you continue doing what you’re doing and working on it, then you will be able to lead the life you want to lead. I think a lot of happiness is accepting the situations that we are in, regardless of how we got there, and then making a plan going forward to think more positive and be happy. It doesn’t happen overnight, but it creeps in slowly, and soon you’ll find yourself reacting positively and making the best of things. It can even happen today, if someone asks you about your situation, respond with a joke…make light of it…be the first one to say hey, this is serious, but it doesn’t have to dictate my emotions to be negative. You should try reading the book Tuesdays with Morrie, it’s about a man that is dying with ALS, and the pain he goes through. It has a lot of good insights about thinking positively and accepting the situations we find ourselves in. I hope you are doing well, and good luck!
Hi. I am struggling with a serious life threatening illness. I recovered from the same thing 12 years ago, have been fine ever since and then out of what seems like nowhere I relapsed. I feel negative about this and it is not helping me one bit. I believe that what you say is true, I want so much to turn this around for myself and my future. I can barely keep my mind off of it and I know how wrong that is. I will continue to work on my thoughts. MM