How to Keep a Positive Attitude

Looking on the bright side can help make your life easier, healthier and even longer. Optimists are generally stronger both psychologically and physically than pessimists and are are better equipped to cope during periods of stress. The Mayo Clinic says people with a negative outlook are more inclined to suffer from depression, catch a cold and to die of cardiovascular disease. There are a number of steps you can take to improve your attitude.

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Attitude

Step 1

Choose to be happy. Abraham Lincoln said people are about as happy as they make their minds up to be. Stop waiting for things to get better, and start looking on the bright side.

Step 2

Refuse to anticipate the worst and insist on visualizing a positive outcome. Take on the attitude that believing is seeing, rather than the other way around.

Step 3

Laugh at yourself and be willing to see the humor in every situation. A little levity can help boost you're your mood and remind you to not sweat the small stuff. Realize that "this too shall pass."

Step 4

Learn to express your feelings. Keeping your thoughts inside can cause frustration, anxiety and anger and lead to misunderstandings.

Action

Step 1

Spend more time with upbeat people. Bear in mind that like attracts like, and your happy thoughts will attract positive people into your life.

Step 2

Read uplifting quotes and inspirational material about the power of positive thinking. Absorbing positive words and reciting encouraging affirmations can be highly supportive emotional ammunition during challenging situations.

Step 3

Reconnect with people you have lost contact with. A shared history can bring back positive memories and instill an overall sense of well-being and fullness.

Step 4

Help out another person. Volunteering at a senior center or simply helping an elderly neighbor with a few household chores can make you feel good about yourself and keep your attitude up.