Being optimistic is something that has helped me keep my momentum going in a positive direction -- however, at times, I have to be very intentional about it. The moments I feel discouraged, have set backs, fall into comparing myself to other people, I have to make a conscious effort to bring my mind back into a positive space.
It must be noted that pessimism and cynicism do not make a person sophisticated or worldly -- that seems to be a commonly held, and deeply inaccurate belief. Pessimism and cynicism rob your joy and your motivation -- and that is all they do. They solve no problems. They bring nothing good.
These two habits will help to regain or maintain an optimistic outlook when life goes sideways.
1) Gratitude practice -- every morning write down three things you're grateful for. If you're feeling especially down, make it small stuff like the smell of coffee or a bird on a bird feeder.
2) Celebrate your wins -- what was your win of the day? At night before you fall asleep, id your win of the day. Small things count. Wins of the day are especially good to cite when the day was a tough one. Fall asleep thinking of the good thing that happened.
Being intentionally optimistic will help keep goals in view and joy in your life.
*Daniella Bozzone is a mindset and habit writer and private investor. Check out her children's books at Amazon.com