Optimism can be taught

Can optimism be taught?

Optimism is a feeling, an attitude so, can optimism be taught? Although optimism is an intangible thing, it is also very evident in language and behaviours. So, do you think optimism can be taught?

You know when you’ve met an optimistic person. They’re friendly, upbeat, and often confident about something that’s going to happen sometime in the future. Therefore while it’s intangible, it’s visible in many ways too.

I believe optimism can be taught, and that while parents can guide a child to be positive in their thoughts and actions, there comes a point in life where it’s your choice, your responsibility.

How optimism affects mental health

When you are optimistic, meaning having a positive outlook, you impact your mental health, for the better. You are the only one in control of this goal. It’s your responsibility and yours alone.

There are days when we all feel down, depressed about something or someone and the impact it’s having on our life. But rather than have a doom and gloom perspective you can consider how, and what, you can learn from the experience.

The answer will come to you surprisingly quick, just trust your instincts even though you might like the answer that comes so naturally. Usually, you don’t like the answer because it requires giving up something that you like – but remember it’s always for something better in return.

When to use optimism

Anytime you are feeling in a negative mood or having negative thoughts, turn it around. Think of the exact opposite, the optimistic viewpoint, and ask yourself how you can achieve it.

The mind is an amazing thing, and as you ask yourself how to achieve what you want, envisage or hope for you’ll be surprised at the ideas and thoughts that come into mind.

What comes to mind gives you purpose, not to mention guidance, direction and hope. Remember to replace a negative thought with a positive thought. You can’t think both a positive and a negative thought at the same time. Focus on one at a time, which choice will you make?

If you’d like to see where your thoughts will take you, book a time with me so I can ask you some questions, that will help you focus on an optimistic future. As a coach, it’s what I love to do.