Optimism…it’s a four-syllable word that can be harder to find than the Canterbury Panther. Panthers or not, if you spend enough time down south exploring, you too will soon find something of value in the amazing landscapes and tundra.
Every day we can be bombarded with negative news (top tip: don’t watch the 6pm news!) or personal trials and tribulations that have us feeling down (life happens to all of us!). Fortunately, there are small but effective ways we can boost our mood and improve our outlook on life. If you want to become a happier person (I think we all do), here are some tips to start seeing the good in your life:
6 Tips for Finding Optimism
1. Find laughter.
These days, it isn’t hard to find. With YouTube and social media, there is no shortage of memes, videos, reels, and more to get you crackalackin. You could also rent a funny movie, watch stand up comedy, or hang out with funny people. Laughter will lead to smiling, and smiling will lead to feeling good. This brings us to our next point…
2. Turn the frown upside down.
It’s hard to believe that something as simple as smiling can improve your mood, but a recent study in the Journal of Experimental Psychology has linked outward acts of happiness to a change in our inner psyche. Go and take a look at yourself in the mirror and smile, even it if feels stupid and inauthentic. Hold your smile for a minute, two minutes, five minutes…see how long you can go. Start the day off with a smile, and make a conscious effort to smile more.
3. Use positive words.
Studies have shown and confirmed what spiritual traditions have long held regarding the power of the tongue: words can literally shape the reality around us. If you want to build a more positive vibe, try using more positive words. Eliminate negative talk about yourself, and others as well.
4. Find positive people.
The impact of those we hang out with is enormous. If you can, stay away from negative influences and people who bring you down with complaining and criticism. Misery loves company, so they say, and will also drain your energy. Find friends who are upbeat, positive, and happy, and their resilience and optimism will pass on to you.
5. Stay healthy.
If you’re feeling tired and sick, it’s easy to get irritable and negative. By contrast, try maintaining an active lifestyle of healthy choices that can maximize your energy levels and build you up. It’s easier to be upbeat and happy when you feel good inside and out.
6. Tap into something bigger than yourself.
Most spiritual traditions promote a positive outlook on life. If you’re not so into organised religion, find something that can provide a positive outlet for you, like exercise, music, art, or reading. Just like using positive words can turn our perspective around, filling our hearts and minds with good stuff will help optimism come easier.
Looking for ways to implement optimism in your workplace?
Positive organisational cultures contribute to ensuring your team are optimistic about their roles and in their personal lives. If you’re looking for ways to turn your organisational culture into a positive, productive and performing one – the mentokc team are here to help. Get in touch today to discuss how we can help.
I want to build a positive organisational culture. Let’s chat!