POWER OF A POSITIVE ATTITUDE

How we handle stress depends upon our attitude. Attitude can also affect the way stress handles us. Optimists are able to cope more effectively with stress. It also reduces their chances of developing a stress-related illness. When optimistic people do become ill, they tend to recover more quickly.

Pessimists are likely to deny the problem, distance themselves from the stressful event, focus on stressful feelings, or allow the stressor to interfere with achieving a goal. People with a more pessimistic attitude tend to report poorer health compared to people with optimistic attitudes.

People with positive attitudes view situations differently from those with negative attitudes. Here are some general statements. Think about how you would respond to them:

In times of uncertainty, I usually expect the best.
In times of uncertainty, I usually expect the worst.
I look on the bright side of things.
I look on the dark side of things.
I hardly ever expect things to go my way.
I do not always expect things to go my way. When they do not, I try to learn something from the experience.

Attitudes can even be detected in the words we use. For example, "I won't," indicates choice, whereas "I can't" indicates powerlessness.

Our attitudes develop from the time we are children. It is difficult for pessimists to change overnight. One way to start developing a more positive attitude is through "thought stopping." Start by noticing your attitude in various situations to see if you have a more negative or a more pessimistic view.

The next time you are thinking or saying a pessimistic comment, picture a big, red stop sign stopping the negative thought. Then replace that thought, or the statement, with a more positive or optimistic statement.

If you would like to learn more about how our attitudes can influence our health and the way we handle stress, contact your local community or adult education center. They often offer classes that include information on positive attitudes.

If you feel that your negative attitude toward life could be affecting your health, contact your healthcare provider. They may refer you to a person who specializes in the area of change in attitude or in the area of wellness. There are several books on positive thinking available in the library that may give you a lot of help.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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