Develop Optimism

Today’s post is by Annette Colby.

When things go wrong in life some people rise to the occasion with expectant spirits while others respond with self-doubt and hopelessness. The first group is optimistic and can generally withstand their challenges without falling apart. They will keep trying new solutions until they succeed. The second group has a tendency to descend into a spiral of gloom and doom when facing a challenge. The optimists are in the habit of thinking, “I can handle this,” when things go wrong. The “doom and gloomers” tend to think, “This is more than I can tolerate.”

Hopeless Thoughts

When things go wrong, more pessimistic personalities tend to have hopeless thoughts. They tell themselves:

• This is too much.
• It is overwhelming.
• This is out of control.
• I will never get it right.
• I cannot stand it.
• I cannot bear this.
• This will never change.

All or Nothing

For example, some people struggling to overcome eating issues view their challenges and setbacks as evidence that they will never succeed. They create overly intense states, feeling their experience is too much to handle, too overwhelming, or out of control. They may also criticize themselves for having to face this challenge, attacking themselves with judgment and blame. The challenge is viewed as an internal weakness that is inescapable. If they overeat they tend to say, “Since I’ve already screwed up, all is lost. I’m a loser. It’s hopeless, so I might as well indulge myself.” The setback is more proof that they can never have what they want. In addition, the setback overshadows, or even seemingly undoes, any forward movement they have had.

Optimism Can Be Learned

We may not all be lucky enough to have been born eternal optimists. However, even the person who is easily overwhelmed can learn how to switch their focus to positive expectations.

It will probably require practice, but it all starts by making a decision to speak to yourself in a supportive manner, especially when you need it most. The next time your voice of doom and gloom tries to bully you into submission, surprise it by standing up. Gather your courage and decide not to collapse. Then take a deep conscious breath and feel into yourself to gain a sense of what you could do or say to provide yourself comfort and encouragement.

For instance, you might consider saying, “Things didn’t go well today, but that’s just what happens sometimes. I wish I already had the complete outcome of what I want, but truthfully, creating success is a journey that takes as long as it takes. Even though I can’t see the solution in this moment, somehow I will get through this situation. As long as I don’t give up, I will give myself the benefit of the doubt that I will have the full and complete result of what I wanted.”

Allowing yourself permission to become more optimistic opens up new possibilities. Instead of feeling stressed and anxious, you begin to relax. You see that a more positive future is possible. Lifting out of overwhelm allows you to begin to wonder how you can move through this problem.

The next time you feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or helpless, decide to give yourself a break. Accept that things don’t always go as planned, but you can still expect good things to happen in your life!

You do not need to go through life exhausted, depressed, stressed, or overweight! Imagine waking up each morning with joy and positive energy that lasts throughout the day! Subscribe to our wonderful free weekly Loving Miracles newsletter at http://www.AnnetteColby.com

Article Source: EzineArticles.com