What is Positive Psychology? Part 1

“You Can Positively Save Your Life”

Part 1

                I have always considered myself to be a pretty positive, easy going person.  I have had many struggles throughout life, so I guess I became naturally resilient over the years. It isn’t something that I intentionally did or received training on. It just happened. Being a happy go lucky person isn’t something I have pondered much until lately. I asked myself a couple weeks ago, “Does positivity and optimism have anything to do with my health?” You see, I hardly ever get sick. I have always contributed that fact to staying in “shape”. Is that the real reason or the only reason?

                How much does being happy, optimistic or positive tied to your health? After a few Google searches, I found a whole new world of positivity. It is the field of Positive Psychology. Yes that is an actual thing, look it up. There are very few things in life more important than preserving life, especially you own. How simple is just approaching each day, situation, and person you meet with positivity, optimism, and empathy. So I figured why not put another feather in my healthy cap, and dig a little deeper in my new found interest.

                I have been shocked at the amount of research that has been conducted on this topic, which some case studies date back as far as 1992. That is just the extent of what research I have done so far, but I am sure the studies go back even further. Some universities are even offering degrees in Positive Psychology now. I think it is time for some of us to start listening up, because this world is full of negativity. If there is any shred of truth to these studies, this tells me the world is killing itself through pessimism and negativity. If not, what have you lost really?

                The power of optimism has been linked to successful bouts with cancer, decreasing the likelihood of heart attacks, and improved immune systems. So I have to ask, why are people so crabby? I am going to say an ugly word, and say it has a lot to do with the media. Horrible, negative things seem to be all the rage, and it is what sells. So why not give the people what they want. Right? That is just one of many things that has taught our society to focus in on the negative, and live a pessimistic life.

                I would be writing for days if I wanted to cover everything in today’s society that breed a hotbed of pessimism, negativity and hate. I am not going to do that, but instead I am going to dig into the studies, techniques, books, and articles that will help me to convey to you that you can positively save your life!

Come join me on this journey to a happier and healthier life!