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This article was written by Qaqamba Falithenjwa.
Are you the kind of person who sees a rainstorm and imagines rainbows—or do you instantly worry about getting soaked? The way we see the world says a lot about us, and the divide between optimism and pessimism is more than just glass-half-full or glass-half-empty thinking.
Curious about where you fall on the spectrum, or wondering how your perspective shapes your life? Let’s explore the fascinating world of optimists vs. pessimists, and discover what your outlook says about you.
The Kentucky Counselling Centre explains that pessimism is a negative outlook on life, focusing on the possibility of negative outcomes. It is, mentioned that there are two types of pessimism: defensive and depressing. “Defensive pessimism is when you expect negative situations can happen and be mentally ready to face these situations anytime. You are doing something to prevent the negative event from happening. Despite your efforts to prevent it, you are still open to the possibility that the situation can worsen.”
The above source explains that this defensive pessimism is a defence mechanism that people use to protect themselves from disappointments. Pessimism that is connected to mental health issues including stress, anxiety, and depression is known as depressing pessimism and adults may commit suicide as a result, the publication further states.
Optimism is a mindset of hopefulness and positivity about the future, believing that things will work out for the best, even in difficult times claims Very Well Mind. It is said to be a mindset that can be fostered through practice and intentionality.
The above source mentions that optimism has numerous benefits for overall health and well-being, including reduced stress, and depression, greater disease resistance, and improved longevity.
“While it is healthy to trust that you’ll always make it out the other side when faced with adversity, it’s unhealthy to think you won’t have to deal with these challenges in the first place. That mentality can lead to reckless behaviour or decision-making, for instance, a gambler might always think they’ll win or a daredevil might always think they’ll make the jump. Being more optimistic does not exempt you from the laws of nature (or reality).”
Harvard University researchers have published a study in the Journal of American Geriatrics Society that found that optimists are more resilient, have powerful coping skills, experience fewer negative emotions, and have more meaningful relationships. The study also found that those who were most optimistic were likely to have a longer lifespan, with a 10% greater likelihood of living beyond the age of 90.
The study suggests that positive psychological factors, like optimism, can be considered a new approach to promoting longevity and healthy ageing across diverse groups. Optimism is believed to set the tone for one’s entire life, directing thoughts and actions. The study further notes that being optimistic is partly an inherited trait, with about 25% of a person’s mindset being genetically inherited.
This article first appeared on Bona.
