How to Overcome Pessimism

Dealing with life's challenges is sometimes easier said than done. No matter what your personal circumstances may be, it's not unusual to feel as if the rest of the universe is somehow conspiring against you. In light of this, it's even more important to find ways to process these feelings in a manner that doesn't end up crippling you with cynicism. Overcoming pessimism is not a one-step or one-time process, but you will reap the benefits by conditioning yourself to cope in more positive ways.

Instructions

• 1

  Confront the reality that you are in fact being pessimistic about a person, situation or issue. It's sometimes easier to reason that your pessimism is just pragmatism--and in many cases it might be. However, true pessimism has a definite tinge of defeated negativity attached.

• 2

  Ask yourself if there is any other possible way of viewing your circumstances in a different light. Even if you can't agree with these alternative perspectives, give them credence by acknowledging that there is hardly ever only one way of emotionally processing a situation.

• 3

  Gain a fresh perspective on your pessimistic views. For a more objective assessment, speak to someone who tends to look at situations in a different way than yourself. This isn't to say that this person will always be right or vice versa, but it is harder to cling to true pessimism in light of convincing evidence to the contrary.

• 4

  Make the conscious decision to be genuinely thankful for what you do have as opposed to dwelling on what you do not. This should not be a passive process; really consider how much worse your situation could be, and be proud of the ways you have overcome pessimism in the past.

• 5

  Take the time to brainstorm ideas for overcoming what is making you pessimistic. Boosting your confidence by doing things you are good at, or learning more about issues you are unsure of can help offset the fear which drives pessimistic attitudes.