The Power of Optimism: Finding Light Amidst Negativity
Amidst the challenges and uncertainties in the world today, it’s crucial to harness the power of optimism. Maintaining a positive outlook can significantly ease life’s burdens, even in the face of bad news. Optimism propels us toward solutions and resolutions. But how can we stay optimistic when surrounded by negativity, challenging people, or uncontrollable circumstances?
Two Practical Strategies for Sustaining Optimism
1. Create a Humor File
A humor file is a collection of things that make you laugh or smile. Every morning, I engage in a group chat with a small circle of incredibly funny and caring women. Their humor lifts my spirits, setting a positive tone for the day.
To maintain your optimism:
• Track things that make you laugh: Jokes, memes, or funny moments.
• Access your humor file during stressful moments: It can help shift your mood positively. Remember, there’s no such thing as a bad day—only bad moments that people choose to nurse all day long.
2. Create a Win-List
A win-list, or gratitude journal, is where you record daily victories. These can be big or small, like receiving a compliment, overcoming procrastination, or achieving a goal.
To cultivate positivity:
• Document your wins: Anything that made you feel accomplished or happy.
• Reflect on your win-list regularly: It helps your brain focus on the positives, making you more likely to notice and appreciate good things.
A Personal Example
My husband, (post-cancer surgery and currently in rehab), shares a nightly ritual with me. I take out our win-list and I ask him “What are you grateful for today?” He doesn’t hesitate, he just starts listing all these positive things from his day. Despite his situation, he remembers the names of all the nurses and practitioners who assist him. His gratitude list includes their kindness and the support we receive, like beautiful flowers from one of my closest friends, daily calls from another friend, noise-canceling headphones to ease the stress of sharing a room with another patient, and cookies, always appreciate a box of cookies!
By focusing on these positive aspects, we find more things to be grateful for, fostering a more optimistic outlook.
Action Steps for You
This Front-Row Friday, start implementing these strategies:
1 Create a humor file: Fill it with things that make you laugh. Take your work seriously but take yourself lightly.
2 Start a win-list: Write down daily gratitudes and victories.
Pull out your win list whenever you need a boost, and let it remind you of the good in your life. By doing so, you’ll begin to see more wins and cultivate a more optimistic perspective.
Stay positive and hopeful,
Your Head Usher,
Marilyn
