subject: Being an Optimist [print this page] Author: Drew Backley Author: Drew Backley
Is there really a secret to being happy? Although I havent been on this planet long, I have found that yes, indeed there is. Contrary to what most people think, happiness is not solely your bank account. Happiness is not in the car you drive or your current social status. When it comes down to it, happiness simply is what you make of it.
The best decision I have ever made, or that one could make for themselves, is to be optimistic. When you have a happy outlook on life, it is almost hard to be blue. Have you ever noticed how some people are just naturally always having a good time, no matter where they are? This is what a good attitude does to you- it turns every day into a party! Even setbacks appear as a new beginning to those who chose to look at it this way. Not getting one job frees you up for the next offer that might be bigger and better. If you break your wrist, just be thankful you dont have to take out the trash for a couple weeks. And hey, maybe that cute guy asked out the other girl because you intimidated him with your intelligence and shockingly good looks.
Another reason why I know how much your attitude changes your entire life is because I had a friend with depression. Although she was loved by many, she did not see this, and was certain the world was out to get her. This beautiful girl convinced herself she was otherwise, and would not believe how wonderful she was. Something that was hard on me would be treacherous on her; all pains were magnified. She even contemplated life.
Since then, this friend of mine has gotten help, and is a much happier person. Her health has improved, and she tells me she has a much easier time getting out of bed and facing the world each day.
The stories of how happiness alters health in peoples lives are endless. When a person in a coma is spoken to and kept company, they are ten times more likely to respond sooner. When a patient has hope and believes they can pull through a surgery, they recover much faster. And if you believe mentality has nothing to do with how your body works, guess again. When you are nervous, your body responds with shakiness or sweating. When you get scared, your heart starts thumping. And best of all, we all know that feeling when you get excited. You want to run and jump until your feet cant carry you anymore.
Being an optimist is the single most important decision people can make for themselves. You can either hate it or love it; most people dont realize that that is their decision to make.About the Author:
