Optimism is Opportunity

Art by @sspellmancann

I am an optimist and for the most part it seems I have always been that way. It is possible that 25-35% of optimistic traits may be inherited. William Chopik PhD. associate professor of psychology and director of the Close Relationships Lab at Michigan State University found in his twin studies that 25% of optimism is inherited. That said environmental factors do indeed matter. 

So what have I done in my life to remain optimistic?

1. I work hard at starting my day in a positive way with a positive mindset. It’s not always easy, but living life finding the many ways to be more positive matters to me.

2. Friendships are essential to my well being. I mostly surround myself with people who look on the brighter side of life.

3. I recognize that what I say and do is up to me.

4. I accept and feel my emotions as much as possible. Reframing and refocusing when necessary. I use self-talk to shift my attitude when needed.

5. I support others paying it forward as often as possible. I reach out for support to assist me in life.

6. I recognize and focus on all the things I am grateful for on a regular basis.

7. I focus on living each day to the fullest as best I can. Truly living life one day at a time makes life so much easier allowing me to let go of so many things.

8. I don’t dwell on the negative possibilities, I find ways to see the positive in most situations.

9. I appreciate the people around me and let them know. I take the time to write a post card or letter, send a note or tell someones boss what a difference they make as often as possible.

10. I hang on to hope at every given moment.

Has life always been easy? No, like most people I have experienced many challenges of life, but I choose to find ways to look for what I can learn from every experience. 

I remember when I was first diagnosed with keratoconus and my ophthalmologist at the time said I could go blind (a more pessimistic view as there are so many developments to assist people with pellucid marginal degeneration as I was later diagnosed with and could be more in the future) and I thought to myself well if I need a seeing eye dog and that’s the worst that happens I can live with that. That was over ten years ago and I am not blind. I have had many eye challenges. I had a year where I could not drive, I have had many moments where seeing was a real challenge, but for today I can see well with sclerals. I know I will need a corneal transplant, but life is full of twists and turns and I choose to find ways to make the most of life.

If you want to find out where you fit on the optimism scale you can check out the LOT- R. What is the Life Orientation Test and How to Use It? (LOT-R)

My wish for all of you in this ever changing world is that you cultivate a little more optimism in your life so that you have an opportunity to live longer and more positively right up to the end no matter what life challenges you have to face.

Just for today I plan on heading for the beach no matter how sunny it is.