News You Can Use
For good health, a positive attitude is essential
University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Dustin Barnes
Feb. 23, 2004
STARKVILLE, Miss.—If you’re looking for a better life, here’s a hint: don’t be so pessimistic in your current life.
The power of positive thinking is not a myth but a reality that is gaining increasing medical credibility, said Linda M. Cox, director of the Counseling and Testing Services Center at Mississippi State University.
Citing the connection between mind and body, she says, “One recent study showed that women with breast cancer who were part of a support group had a more positive outcome than women without a support group.” The intangible qualities—optimism, determination and hope--“are vital ingredients in combating illnesses, tragedies and other life problems,” Cox observes.
For the “glass half-empty person,” Cox suggests some steps for developing a half-full outlook. They include:
—Increasing personal awareness of negative thoughts and using a positive statement to challenge the negative one. Instead of “I always lose,” try “I can win.”
—Develop a sense of “the bigger picture.” Avoid the superficial aspects of daily life by focusing more on things that matter the most.
—Lose the need to be “perfect” by learning to be more forgiving of yourself and others.
—Learn to have faith in a benevolent universe and an ultimate design to life for the greater good. Instead of looking for the worst, anticipate the best.
—Cultivate an abundance mentality and the belief that there is enough in life to go around. This attitude promotes a sense of sharing and a more positive atmosphere, in general.
—Be thankful for your blessings and count them every day.
In conclusion, Cox advises “half-empties” to appreciate that negative feelings and experiences are temporary and part of the balance of life. In time, they, too, will pass.