Optimism with Benefits

Jill Marler

Mrs. Whitsell

English Comp I

12 November 2012

Optimism with Benefits

        In life, it is important for an individual to notice the positive side in every obstacle they encounter. Many people wish to be happy, while others make it happen by looking on the bright side. Life has tragedies, but when someone finds a way to be optimistic in the midst of their storm, it encourages them to overcome it. An optimistic outlook is very important to not only that person, but also has an effect on whomever he/she is around. It is said that health benefits come from being positive, as well.

        The overused glass half-empty, or glass half-full concept reveals so much about someone’s outlook on things. The optimists who look upon situations as half-full may notice health benefits that pessimists may miss out on. Their stress levels are much lower, which causes a decrease in depression. Regardless of a pessimist’s health, they may not have the right thought process to cope with a negative experience like an optimist. People who bring out the positive in every situation can even have a longer lifespan, as well as a greater resistance to illness. If optimistic individuals spend their time enjoying others and laughing, this also benefits their life. Laughter not only boosts your mood, but it soothes tension as well! Laughing can also relieve pain, making the torturous “hitting the funny bone” less painful.

        Being positive does not only improve the quality of one’s life, it also encourages others to have a bright outlook on things after they are around someone positive. People want to be around someone that encourages them, not one who brings them down or only talks of negative things. It is also important to stay away from the pessimistic individuals that bring down positive thought flow.

        In order to gain this positive attitude, a person must first accept that they will encounter struggles throughout their lifetime. Following their acceptance, they need to develop a determination to always get the best out of whatever they encounter. It is important to focus on any positive factor to create a habit of it. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people (Ephesians 6:7).

        Additionally, an individual must acquire a habit in which they rarely take their blessings for granted. Being thankful for every up and down that occurs is critical in order to develop the positive outlook which is desired. Regardless of the trials that will be faced, the positive determination successfully attained will always overcome anything.

        The act of being positive is more than personal, it affects everyone nearby. Optimism does, indeed, provide benefits in numerous ways as well. Improving health and changing the way an individual deals with tragedies are two advantages of looking on the bright side of any situation. It is important to always be thankful in order to wipe away the negative that comes from coveting others. In addition to being thankful, it is also crucial to be surrounded with enthusiastic people whom will help to develop a permanent positive thinking process. No matter the struggle, being positive will always help bring about triumph in the end!

Works Cited

Ephesians. New Living Translation. Illinois: Tyndale House Foundation, 2007. Print.