How to Overcome a Pessimistic Attitude From Your Upbringing

The manner in which you view life has tremendous implications for your physical, emotional and social well-being. People with positive attitudes tend to be healthier. According to the Mayo Clinic, optimism is linked to greater immunity, lower levels of depression, better overall physical and emotional health and a longer life span. Unfortunately, some people are raised in an environment in which pessimism is the norm. If you experienced this type of upbringing, there is still hope. You can conquer a pessimistic way of thinking.

Instructions

• 1

  Write down the pessimistic messages that were predominant in your childhood. The first step to overcoming pessimism is to be aware of how it manifests itself. An example of a pessimistic message would be, "You'll never amount to anything," or even something as simple as, "Something is bound to go wrong on this vacation."

• 2

  Refocus yourself when you detect these messages floating into your thoughts. If you are aware of a pessimistic thought, replace it with an optimistic one. For example, if you are in the habit of thinking, "I hope I don't make a fool of myself on this date," replace that thought with, "I am an attractive, intelligent person, and I am going to have a good time tonight."

• 3

  Surround yourself with people who think optimistically. It's generally true that misery loves company. If you have people around you who are mostly pessimistic, you probably will head in the same direction. In contrast, the optimism of others will make it easier for you to be optimistic as well.

• 4

  Maintain your health. Getting enough sleep, exercise and time to relax will help you to deal with stress more efficiently. Visit your doctor for regular checkups as well. If you don't feel well, you will find it harder to overcome pessimistic thoughts.