The Power of Positive

Think Positive

"Think positive." It’s a term you’ve probably heard before, but you may have brushed it off. After all, most people would prefer to be positive than negative. But over the years, research has shown that positive thinking is much more than a feelgood phrase. Positive thoughts can actually have a real impact on your life … and create value that lasts much longer than a single smile.

Practicing positive thinking means you approach life’s challenges with a positive outlook. It does not mean avoiding or ignoring the bad things, but instead, making the most of every situation. Whether it’s seeing the best in other people or viewing yourself in a favorable light, maintaining a positive mindset can have lasting benefits that help improve the way you live.

Improved Health

Positive thinking may seem as if it would affect only your emotional well-being, but studies have shown that it can improve other areas of your health as well. According to the Mayo Clinic,* positive thinking can be linked to a variety of health benefits, including:

• Increased life span

• Lower rates of depression

• Greater resistance to the common cold

• Better mental and physical well-being

• Reduced risk for heart attack

And while these health benefits may not be a direct result of positive thinking, there is the idea that positive people tend to live healthier lifestyles. For example, they may get more exercise, have a better diet and sleep regularly — all of which could improve their overall health.