7 Lift-Yourself Up Tricks

New research reveals that optimists are not only less prone to depression, they have healthier hearts
and lungs, more resilient immune systems and are even more likely to live longer – and to be more successful. Why? Optimists strive to be effective problem-solvers and to surround themselves with health-promoting support from friends and family – while pessimists give up more easily and get depressed more often. But research also shows that becoming an optimist is easier than you think – really! Just:

1. Follow the rule of five!

Feeling negative? Research from the University of California at Riverside shows that a do-good binge of five kind acts in one day – from feeding a stranger’s parking meter to buying cookies from a Girl Scout – guarantees that you’ll feel more positive about things! In fact, A single ’kind’ day will leave you floating on a cloud of positive energy for an entire week!” says Sonja Lyubomirsky, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology at the University of California, Riverside.

2. Pat yourself on the back!

Something good happen? Take credit for it! That’s what optimists do, and here’s why: It makes them feel they’re in control, and that’s a powerful happiness booster. What’s also key: acknowledging your strengths and finding new ways to use them, whether it’s your sense of humor or your winning way of apple pie. Not sure how? Ask yourself: “What are my best talents?” and “How can I make the best use of them?”- You’ll shine in no time!

3. Argue with yourself!

Having an unpleasant thought, like, “I’ll never get that promotion,” or “My house is always a mess”? Pretend that someone else is saying these things to you, with the goal of making you miserable. Then, fight back by disputing the negative statements – like “My house may not be perfect, but it’s friendly and comfortable.” You’ll feel better instantly! “We tend to say negative things to ourselves we’d never let other people say to us, so doing this gives us a reality check,” says psychologist Bob Murray, Ph.D., coauthor of Creating Optimism.

4. Catch a sunset!

Need a quick lift? Sit down and enjoy the pinks and oranges of a sunset, stroll through a pretty park or wander along a swift stream – anything that gets you in touch with the peace and beauty of nature. Even a potted plant in your office will help, says Murray. “We’re genetically wired to enjoy and benefit from a close proximity to nature,” he explains. “Studies have shown that walking in natural surroundings brightens your outlook and makes you more optimistic.”

5. Hang out with happiness!

If your pals seem like they’re always complaining, consider expanding your circle of friends – or having a good-news-only-get-together once a week. “Studies show that one great way to become optimistic is to surround yourself with people who are optimistic,” says Murray. “Look for the people who are always in a good mood. Pessimism breeds pessimism and optimism breeds optimism. They are both highly contagious!”

6. Look ahead, never back!

Do you spend sleepless nights replaying reprimands from your boss or a spat with your spouse – and wondering what you could have done to prevent them? That can send self-confidence plummeting, says research from University of Arkansas psychologist Denise Beike, Ph.D. So the next time an embarrassing “I should have done better” pops into your mind, banish it and think of how much better you’ll do next time instead!

7. Never says always!

Pessimists tend to believe bad events will last a long time – while optimists believe defeat is just a temporary setback. So purge the words never and always from your vocabulary, and add the phrase “This is temporary!” instead. “You’ll feel more optimistic – instantly!” promises Rosalene Glickman, Ph.D., author of Optimal Thinking.

~contributed by Diane Umansky

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