When you look at a metaphorical glass, is it half empty or half full? Are you viewing your glass from lack, or from abundance? Your perspective on every situation in life is influenced by how much optimism you carry.
Action for Happiness has released their October calendar (attached), and the theme for the month is OPTIMISM. Webster's Dictionary defines optimism as: the ability to anticipate the best possible outcome. From a mental health perspective, optimism is empowerment! It can be the power or skill you use to turn your day, or someone else's day around. It is the ability to find the silver lining in any situation that comes your way. Remember, that even struggle and strife serve a purpose, they teach us lessons, and grow our resilience. Optimism can be empowerment to get to a place of overall health, balance, and wellness. Optimism is connected with improved physical health, such as lower rates of high blood pressure and faster rates of recovery from disease, illness, or surgery. Additionally, longevity. Optimism is also connected with improved mental health, such as significantly lower rates of depression, lower rates of chronic stress, high self-esteem, self-efficacy, and professional success/achievements.
This month, the counselors challenge you to use this calendar to practice optimism in October. For example, October 17th is the day to take a small step towards a change you wish to see in your community or neighborhood. You may desire to see a cleaner neighborhood. As you take your morning trip to 7-11, toss your trash into the trash can, not in front of the trashcan. Plant some plants or flowers in your backyard, windowsill, or neighborhood garden. These are tiny optimistic actions that can produce powerful steps in creating a cleaner world. Best of all, someone might notice and be inclined to do the same!
Cheers to an Optimistic October,
The APTS Therapy Team