Cultivating Optimism

Things don’t always turn out for the best, but there are some who can make the best of what turns out.

Looking at the bright side, finding the silver lining in a cloud, giving yourself the benefit of the doubt are all ways of cultivating optimism. Knowing in the midst of difficulties that they are temporary, and even at times of failure that you will emerge stronger and wiser provide you with a positive view to the future.

Optimism implies a positive outlook. This is sometimes hard to maintain when you are in a fast paced, pressured healthcare practice and noticing that reimbursements are decreasing while EHR demands are increasing. Between patients’ complaints re discomfort and concerns, and your responsibilities beyond patient care, you may be feeling overstretched and on your way to burn-out. The following 2 strategies can help you get back in touch with your optimism.

Your Best Possible Self is a tried and true activity you can do. Spend 20 minutes a day, four times a week, over one to several weeks writing a description of your “best possible future.” Write about various aspects of your life to develop a broad picture; essentially write down (or type) what your life might be like if all your dreams and goals were realized. This may sound like a big commitment, however it is worth it to provide you with your vision.

It’s important to repeat the exercise several times since this writing focuses your goals, providing a more clear sense of direction and motivation. With the motivation comes the willingness to take action and this reinforces the motivation and taking action cycle. Since writing is so structured, it helps you to organize, integrate and analyze your thoughts in a way that doesn’t happen when you just fantasize.  By writing about various aspects of your life, you’ll see the big picture, and be able to notice themes which emerge. You’ll have an opportunity to focus, and perhaps realize that what you really desire is more attainable than you thought. A meaningful vision can sustain you when the going gets tough on your journey to create your best possible future.

 

Be a Benefit Finder – When thinking about various situations and relationships in your life, especially those which may not be the way you would like, ask yourself several questions.

• What’s working well here?
• What lessons are there here for me in this situation?
• What do I appreciate and like about this situation or person?

This is a way to train yourself to notice the positive. You won’t be denying the negative; you’ll be opening your mind to a bigger picture which allows you to find benefit even in the difficult.

To explore ways to increase your optimism and live your life of well-being, contact me.

Dina 203.744.YOU3 (9683)