In his classic book, "The Power of Positive Thinking," Norman Vincent Peale first put out the idea in 1952 that personal unhappiness is manifested initially in the mind. By thinking unhappy thoughts and habitually maintaining negative attitudes about life, humans create stress that ultimately leads to misery and disease. Peale says that fear and worry are the byproducts of negative feelings fostered by thoughts of resentment and ill will that are self-manufactured.
Stress Management
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic report that personality traits of optimism or pessimism directly affect a person's health and stress levels. They point out that positive thinking is an integral piece of any stress management program. Positive thinking does not involve denial of reality, but instead allows a person to approach difficulties and unpleasant situations with a more productive attitude.
Self-Talk
The human mind is bombarded with an endless stream of conscious and subconscious thoughts each day that are called self-talk. Mayo Clinic doctors say that these thoughts are automatic and may be either positive or negative. While much of the chatter is based on logical thinking, many of the thoughts are rooted in preconceptions and misconceptions. Ideas learned in childhood often represent a good portion of the notions held as fact.
Health
While researchers do not fully understand the health benefits derived from positive thinking, Mayo Clinic doctors believe that optimistic people live healthier lives and develop less stressful coping mechanisms to deal with life's challenges. Some of the health benefits that result from positive thinking include lower rates of depression and longer life spans, reduced cardiovascular problems and a natural resistance to the common cold. People who employ positive thinking tactics typically enjoy better overall physical and emotional health.
Triggers
Being able to identify negative thoughts and impulses can help pessimists change to become more positive and less stressful. Focusing on the one negative aspect of a situation to the exclusion of all else is a common trait of pessimists who find it difficult to see the good in situations. Self-centeredness leads to a defensive attitude that causes negative people to personalize everything. Catastrophizing is a negative habit that predicts the worse outcomes. People who only see the world in black and white often have trouble developing a positive attitude as well.
Change
Negative self-talk can be changed with practice. By staying on top of thinking patterns and making periodic checks throughout the day, a negative person can see the patterns and stop to provide a positive spin on situations. Humor is a good way to alleviate stress, say doctors at the Mayo Clinic. Exercise and a healthy diet also can contribute to overall feelings of well-being, which make it easier to think positively. Being surrounded by positive people also can help to foster a positive attitude and reduce unnecessary stress.
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