Optimism is a great trait to have. Not only do optimists have great mindset benefits, but they also have physical health benefits. While some people are naturally born optimists, others are more pessimistic. The good news is that you can learn how to become more optimistic. The even better news is that being optimistic can improve your overall physical health!.
The Benefits Of Optimism On Your Physical Health
Optimists carry a belief system that says, “I think I can, and I know I will”. In the story “The Little Engine That Could”, there is a powerful message about optimism. The Little Engine takes on the task of pulling a broken-down train up and over a mountain. It seemed impossible to do, but the Little Engine did it! With diligence and a lot of effort, the Little Engine huffed and puffed and struggled to get up the mountain, but she didn’t give up! The Little Engine kept repeating, “I think I can! I think I can!” all the way up the mountain until she reached her goal! The moral of the story is that if the Little Engine didn’t carry the optimistic mindset, she might not have succeeded.
Much like the Little Engine, being an optimist when it comes to your fitness goals will help you succeed. When you combine that “I think I can!” mindset with your workouts and exercise routine, you will transform into a powerhouse in fitness! Your hard work, committed dedication to your fitness goals, and your optimistic attitude will bring your goals to fruition.
Once you develop an optimistic mindset and apply it to your routine, the benefits include:
- A more enjoyable workout
- An increased capacity for a sustained commitment to your workout routine
- The learned skill of creating momentum and reaching your fitness goals
- An enhanced self-confidence helps you succeed in other areas of your life
- Reaching goals with more ease by thinking optimistically
- A willingness to take on other challenges in life
- Experiencing satisfying results of optimistic thinking and affirming your success
- A healthier mind and body
- Improved sleep
- Building your self-esteem
If you focus on how hard your workout is or how much you dislike doing it, your mind will focus on what does not work. Unfortunately, this will cause you to think, feel, and take action steps in the opposite direction of having optimal physical health. However, an optimistic focus on the thought process of “I think I can, and I know I will!” will keep your mindset at a forward-moving, goal-setting pace where your goals are more achievable.
The Mind-Body Connection Of Optimism
Think about how the mind-body connection works. When you feel disappointed, your body might feel a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach. Nervousness can show up as butterflies or an upset stomach. Anxiety can result in sweaty palms and shaking. And feeling embarrassed brings a red flush to your cheeks. Your emotions, thoughts, and feelings are stored in your body.
If you want a healthy body and a better workout, instead of adding more hours to your workout, try taking on learned optimism instead. If you think you can and know you will, your body and mind will begin to show the results. As you see the results, you will feel more motivated to continue until it becomes a healthy habit that you never want to break. You may see better results by putting in more effort and an improved mindset while also putting in less time. Above all, your mind and body will thank you!