To many people, the new year signals a new beginning and what better way to start it than with a positive attitude. How one hurdles life’s challenges is all about the attitude so why not develop positivity in your daily life and it’s never too late to do that.
If you think that a happy disposition has been elusive to you, psychologists suggest a practical tip – avoid the temptation to complain or talk about your problems. The experts have observed that people often complain when they are not satisfied with things that happen in their lives. Whether it’s a minor or major issue, the tendency to complain happens frequently and what’s worse is that people don’t take immediate steps to find solution to these concerns.
This common occurrence is known as learned helplessness. According to psychologists, this is a state when people feel they cannot control what is happening in their lives which results in their being passive.
But this should not be the case because you always have a choice. While it’s fine to vent sometimes and talk about issues that bother you with a friend, be wary not to become so negative.
The better option is to develop a feeling of gratitude. Studies in the past and in recent years have shown that being grateful for the small and big blessings you receive is an effective way to attain happiness.
Research has proven that gratitude has amazing effects on a person’s physical and psychosocial health.
One study, for instance, found that those who expressed gratitude over the happenings in their lives were 25 percent happier than those who were displeased with the daily hassles they encountered. The group who showed a positive attitude had fewer health issues and exercised regularly. Another study found that people who were grateful showed more emotional support to others experiencing personal problems.
So count your blessings and be grateful for them every day. Soon you’ll find yourself feeling better as you journey through life despite the issues you encounter on a daily basis.
Photo via knowabouthealth.com
About the author:
Teresa is a freelance blogger and mom of two.