What is Positivity?
Catch-a-Fire’s pizza principle defines positivity as the want/need “to strive to exude a positive energy and attitude at all times.” People who are positive are optimistic, cheerful, enthusiastic and hopeful. They believe and expect good things will happen; and beliefs help create facts. Is your glass half empty or half full? Did you know that how you answer this question can affect your health and well being? If the thoughts that run through your head are mostly negative, your outlook on life is likely pessimistic. If your thoughts are mostly positive, you're likely an optimist — someone who practices positive thinking.
“The greatest discovery of any generation is that a human being can alter their life by altering their attitude”...Thomas James.
Benefits of a positive attitude?
A study cited in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology states it improves your heart and brain health. It helps you to have an active curious mind. When you believe in positive outcomes you are not afraid to try new things. It helps you to believe in yourself and your abilities.
Increased Productivity
A positive attitude increases productivity. Research has proven that positive people are more productive than their peers because they positively reinforce themselves.
Better Relationships
Positive people have better relationships and a better social life. This is true because they have the ability to adapt more easily to negative events by using humor and creativity. This makes anyone a better friend and/or partner.
Be Mindful of Your Attitude
Remember, it is not what happens to you but how you react to it that matters. Be mindful of your attitude and surround yourself with positive people. Studies at the Mayo Clinic show there are many benefits to maintaining a positive attitude and outlook such as:
Increased life span
Lower rates of depression
Lower levels of distress and pain
Greater resistance to illnesses
Better psychological and physical well-being
Reduced risk of death from cancer
Reduced risk of death from respiratory conditions
Reduced risk of death from infections
Better coping skills during hardships and times of stress
Better cardiovascular health
Reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease and stroke
Stress Management
The positive thinking that usually comes with optimism is an important part of stress management and that is associated with many health benefits. If you tend to be pessimistic, don't despair — you can learn positive thinking skills! It's unclear why people who engage in positive thinking experience these health benefits. One theory is that having a positive outlook enables you to cope better with stressful situations, which reduces the harmful effects of stress on your body.
Focus on Best Outcome
Positive thinking doesn't mean that you ignore life's unpleasant situations. Positive thinking just means that you approach those situations in a more positive and productive way. You focus on the best outcome, not the worst.
Self-talk
Positive thinking starts with self-talk. Self-talk is the endless stream of unspoken thoughts that run through your head. These automatic thoughts can be positive or negative. However, you can choose to be positive and practice positive thinking! Sometimes it is just a matter of visualizing your success in a positive way. Visualization can be very powerful. Also, remember, it is not the situation itself, but how you react to it that makes the difference.
Start Practicing Positivity
Positive thinking is something you can learn, it just takes some changes in attitude and a desire to improve your health and well being. Start practicing positivity and visualizing your success now!