5 characteristics of a positive mindset (Part I)

Happy Holidays Everyone!

People with a positive mental attitude have an infectious way about them that compels others to gravitate in their direction. They’re optimistic, uplifting, and don’t give in to hopelessness even in the worst of times.  But what’s their secret? Can anyone develop a positive mindset, or are you born with it? 

The truth is, everyone can adopt a more positive mental attitude. And while a positive attitude doesn’t guarantee business success, developing a more positive orientation can improve your mood, relationships, and job and life satisfaction. Research has found that a positive outlook has a real impact on your physical health, too.

What does having a positive mindset look like exactly? Let’s explore five traits people with a positive mental attitude embody.

1. Resilience 

In positive psychology, resilience is being able to recover from stressful and challenging life events. Resilient people face difficult situations with ease and don’t give in to negative emotions during hard times. 

Take the Covid-19 pandemic as an example. Those who thrived during the uncertainty and stress of the pandemic had a consistently positive outlook and quickly adapted to their new environment. 

2. Courage 

Courage allows you to go after what you want without fearing failure, rejection, and other mind-made fears. Instead of fearing failure, courageous individuals embrace it as an opportunity to learn.

This positive mindset helps you reach your goals more easily and grow personally and professionally. 

3. Optimism

Optimism is the main pillar of a positive mental attitude. 

It’s important to note that optimism isn’t always thinking happy thoughts and dismissing problems. It’s about challenging negative thought patterns and reframing them into positive ones. 

A Harvard study found that optimism increased women’s survival rates from serious illnesses by 30%. An optimistic outlook is proven to improve health and well-being. 

4. Gratitude

People who feel thankful even for the smallest joys in life are happier and healthier. They show and feel an appreciation for the good things in their lives like family, good health, or even a sunny day. 

Practicing gratitude by keeping a gratitude journal is a common habit among those with a positive mindset. 

5. Acceptance

We’re naturally inclined to judge a situation in our life as good or bad. But what if we stop judging it as positive or negative and just allow it to be? 

This is the concept behind radical acceptance — accepting things as they are. This mindset allows you to take the best course of action in any situation because you don’t have a negative attitude when things go south.

I hope you enjoyed this piece. There are actually 10 characteristics (in my opinion) that someone with a positive mindset should have. I will give you my opinion in the next one. In the meantime, thank you for stopping by.

Xo,

Source: BetterUp/Blog

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