March is National Optimism Month! Today, we provide more information about the physical and mental health benefits of optimism and how cultivating a positive outlook can contribute to a healthier and more vibrant life. But first, let’s talk about the term “Pollyanna” and how it came to be, because when we think about optimism and how to be optimistic, the term “Pollyanna” often comes to mind.
How to Be Optimistic and Stop Apologizing
Webster’s defines a Pollyanna as an “excessively cheerful and optimistic person”.
The name refers to a character in a children’s book from the early 1900s.
A movie of the same name, about an orphan who cheers up a town, was produced in the 1960s. When we hear the word “Pollyanna”, it’s usually attached to some kind of apology. For example: “I don’t mean to be a Pollyanna, but ….”. (Those of us who are usually optimistic always seem to be apologizing for our “character flaws”!)
Why would we want to apologize for being “excessively cheerful and optimistic”?
Let’s stop saying we’re sorry, okay? Because as it turns out, Pollyanna was really onto something.
Recent research has proven a link between optimism and a healthy, long, life.
In fact, optimists in the study were:
- 38% less likely to die prematurely from heart disease.
- 39% less likely to die of stroke.
- 38% less likely to die of respiratory disease and
- 52% less likely to die from an infection!
Beyond longevity and health, optimism has been linked to other positive behaviors.
For example, optimism is associated with an improved ability to cope with setbacks and challenges.
There’s now an undeniable link between our psychological and physiological well-being.
It’s hard to believe so many still cling to a life of pessimism!
Read More About the Power of Optimism
We optimists would welcome more to our club.
Why wouldn’t everyone want to learn more about how to be optimistic?
But wait… there’s more!
Be Optimistic and Live Longer
Optimistic, happy, kind people are likely to live longer and age more slowly.
Yep. Fewer wrinkles. Less muscle and joint degeneration. Reduced inflammation.
Improved muscle regeneration in the heart. The list goes on and on.
So, what are we waiting for?
Let’s get our hopes up, look on the bright side and find the silver lining. And encourage ourselves to intentionally focus on how to be more optimistic in our daily lives.
How to Be Optimistic and Be Happier Today
Let’s be the person who says, “But what if we could?”
And the first to thank someone for the difference they made in our day, year or life.
Because when we’re happy, old age is not something to fear.
So, let’s also embrace getting older, wiser, kinder, and happier.
Read More About How to Achieve Happiness
Let’s be optimistic. And let’s stop apologizing for it.
Because after all, everything’s going to work out and the future is just bursting with promise.
Thank you as always for reading.
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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Her career includes 20+ years as a health care executive and 15 years (and counting) as a consultant. The common thread through Joan’s professional life has been a commitment to lead, mentor and coach current and future leaders, and women from all walks of life. KindCompassCoach provides information and advice grounded in Joan’s personal experience; however, all articles are backed by research and provide facts and advice from a wide variety of experts. Joan also serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me.
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