Maintaining a positive attitude may improve your health, relationships and overall quality of life. Numerous university studies have shown the connection between optimism and well-being, including a Harvard University study that found a correlation between having a positive attitude and a reducing risk of heart disease. Retaining a cheerful outlook throughout the day may reduce daily stresses and consequentially improve personal and professional relationships.
Physical Health
Dr. Herbert Benson, a cardiologist and graduate of Harvard Medical School, founded the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine, an organization that's devoted to the examination of the interaction and impact of the correlation between the mind and the body. Benson believes that there's a direct connection between the body's reaction to stress and its negative manifestations on our physical health. He says that when someone can redirect negative feelings into positive ones, our bodies are more likely to heal. By focusing on the optimistic aspects of our lives, we can reduce stress that can lead to a suppressed immune system, high blood pressure and heart disease.
Psychologist and therapeutic humorist Steve Sultanoff asserts that a positive attitude generates laughter that can enhance immunoglobulin A, which is an antibody that's necessary to prevent upper respiratory diseases. Additionally, he says that laughter can increase killer T-cells, which are antibodies that combat infection.
Mental Health
Dr. Benson stresses the importance of preventing negative thoughts from penetrating your life. He states that emotional distress and anxiety are predominantly products of the mind, and therefore, by replacing harmful reflections with positive affirmations of yourself and others, you're more capable of coping with the foreseeable hardships in life.
By focusing your attitude on the positive aspects of life, you're more likely to feel better, manage stress more effectively and reduce anxiety. Benson believes that if you're able to reduce negative tendencies, you're more likely to take care of yourself and motivated to seek a more fulfilling life.
Interpersonal Relationships
Cultivating a positive attitude about yourself and your outlook on the world can significantly impact your relationships with others, personally and professionally. Sultanoff states that optimism reinforces effectiveness, communication and healthy relationships within the workplace. Maintaining a positive outlook is invigorating because you're more motivated to achieve success, meet your goals and receive assistance from others; negativity not only drains your energy, but also diminishes the energy of those around you. When you're happy and hopeful, people enjoy your company; as a cheerful person, you're more likely to have healthy relationships with friends, family, spouses and your children.
References
- Psychology Today: A Powerful Example of Having a Positive Attitude
- Harvard University Science: Benefits of Optimism on Health
- Massachusetts General Hospital: Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine
- Humor Matters: Dr. Steve Sultanoff
- Current Directions in Psychological Science, Dr. Carol D. Ryff: Psychological Well-Being in Adult Life
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