At Sleepnitez, our mission is to make our customers lives better.
We know – as we are experiencing it ourselves – that getting older an bring with it ailments of many varieties and sometimes after another sleepless night or waking up to your aches and pains, can get you down.
But did you know that positivity and optimism are also linked to a longer, healthier life?
A recently published study followed 150,000 people aged 50 to 79 for 26 years and recorded health data, longevity and habits. The researchers also measured the participants’ levels of optimism.
The study found that those with the highest levels of optimism lived longer and stayed healthier for longer.
This association held regardless of pre-existing conditions or health behaviors (like diet or exercise), indicating that positivity and optimism alone have a real effect on our long-term health and longevity.
So what is optimism—and what about those of us who aren’t naturally optimistic? Is there anything we can do to feel more positive?
Optimism is confidence and hope for a positive outcome regardless of current circumstances.
When we genuinely believe that good things are possible and that we have the power to make them happen, we tend to rebound more quickly from challenges.
In numerous studies, researchers have measured optimism and a positive outlook through surveys. However, you can assess your own level of optimism by reflecting on a few straightforward questions:
- Do you believe that the good things in your life are a result of your hard work or wise decisions?
- Do you feel that your choices and behaviors can have a positive impact on your future?
- When faced with uncertainty, do you usually expect a favorable outcome?
If you find yourself answering “Yes” to these questions, you’re likely inclined toward a more positive and optimistic mindset.
But if you hesitated or answered “No,” it may indicate that your optimism is currently lower than it could be. The good news is that optimism isn’t a fixed trait—it can be cultivated and developed, and often with just a few small shifts in mindset.
To nurture a more optimistic outlook—and potentially enhance your health and longevity—consider trying one of the following practices.
1. Nightly Journaling
Journaling is a powerful tool that can help you redirect your attention from what’s lacking or challenging in your life to what’s going well. This simple practice encourages a positive shift in perspective, helping you focus on the good.
To begin, spend just five minutes before bed jotting down a few things you’re grateful for. It doesn’t have to be anything profound—small moments of joy or simple comforts can be just as meaningful.
By making this a regular habit, you can gradually transform your mindset, moving from a place of negativity and scarcity to one of optimism and abundance.
2. Visualize Your Best Self at Every Age
The beauty industry often perpetuates the myth that aging diminishes your beauty, worth, and health. But this simply isn’t true. Instead of buying into these limiting beliefs, take a moment to visualize yourself at every age as your healthiest, happiest, and most vibrant self. Imagine a future filled with vitality, joy, and a strong sense of purpose, regardless of your years. By focusing on this positive vision, you can shift your perspective on aging and embrace the natural changes of life with confidence and optimism.
3. Challenge Negative Thoughts
We all have an inner critic—a persistent internal voice that tends to judge and undermine our actions, often without us even realizing it. When you notice this voice surfacing, take a moment to challenge the negative statements it makes. Remember, there is a wiser, more conscious part of you that understands your true potential and worth. Focus on listening to that more compassionate and informed inner voice, and allow it to guide your thoughts and actions in a positive direction.
5. Practice Positive Affirmations
Positive affirmations—simple, uplifting statements you say out loud—can be a powerful tool for shifting your mindset toward a more positive outlook. By regularly repeating a few affirmations, you can reinforce a sense of self-belief and optimism.
Try creating three or four affirmations that resonate with you, and make it a habit to recite them daily. This small but consistent practice can help nurture a more positive and resilient mindset over time.
6. Shift Your Focus
If you want to enhance your enjoyment of life, consider shifting your focus from tasks to anticipation. Instead of just making to-do lists, try listing three things you’re looking forward to tomorrow. This simple adjustment encourages you to focus on pleasure and joy rather than just checking off tasks.
Optimism may not come naturally to everyone, and that’s perfectly okay. But by consciously turning your attention toward positive thoughts and experiences, you can foster a more optimistic outlook—one that may contribute to a longer, healthier life.
Try these simple tips and you might find your mindset is shiftable.