6 Ways to Find Optimism

Optimism... it's a four-syllable word that can be tougher to come by than diamonds in South Africa. But, believe it or not, you, too, may tap into the ground of your surroundings and unearth a treasure trove of feel-good. Here are a few ideas.

#1: Find a source of laughter

It's not difficult to find these days. There is no shortage of memes, videos, vines, and other content to get you crackalackin on YouTube and other media. You may also watch a humorous movie, perform stand-up comedy, or hang out with funny people. Laughter will lead to a smile, and a smile will lead to a nice sensation. Which leads us to our next point...

#2: Flip the frown upside down

It's difficult to think that something as simple as smiling may enhance your mood, yet studies have linked outward displays of enjoyment to an inside shift. Practice by staring in the mirror and smiling, even if it feels cheesy, foolish, and inauthentic. Hold your smile for a minute, two minutes, five minutes...see how long you can go. Begin the day with a grin, and make a conscious effort to smile more.

#3: Use encouraging language

Studies have demonstrated and validated what spiritual traditions have long believed about the power of the tongue: words have the ability to practically create the reality around us. Use more uplifting words if you wish to create a more upbeat atmosphere. Get rid of negative self-talk as well as negative self-talk about others.

#4: Surround yourself with positive people

The people we hang out with have a huge influence on us. Avoid negative influences and people who are constantly whining and criticizing you. Misery likes company, as the old cliché goes, and these folks will swiftly send you downhill. Find friends that are cheerful, upbeat, and happy, and their tenacity and positivity will rub off on you.

#5: Maintain your health

When you're weary and sick, it's easy to become irritated and negative. Maintaining an active lifestyle of healthy choices, on the other hand, can enhance your energy levels and build you up. When you feel good on the inside and out, it's simpler to be positive and happy.

#6: Develop your spiritual and/or actualization abilities

The majority of spiritual traditions encourage an optimistic view on life. If you're not a big fan of organized religion, look for something that can provide you a positive outlet, such as exercise, music, painting, or reading. Just as employing positive words can change our viewpoint, filling our hearts and brains with pleasant things can make it easier to be optimistic.