Monty Python penned the song “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life”. The song was meant to be humorous, but there is a serious side to it as well. Science has taught us that looking on the bright side, having a positive mindset, helps us have good physical and mental health, promotes success both personally and professionally, and even increases longevity. 

Thinking positively helps us to develop and maintain an attitude of optimism. Thinking negatively, on the other hand, promotes, anxiety, stress and even depression.

We have long been aware of the strong mind/body connection. Thinking positively helps our bodies to remain calm, and peaceful which makes us more confident and relaxed and optimistic. This can help our sleep, rid the body of muscle tension, anxiety and stress. Negative thinkers tend to have more sleep disturbances, anxiety and depression.

Thinking positively lowers and even prevents stress and we know that stress decreases the ability to concentrate, effects eating, productivity and relationships with others. Looking on the bright side makes us want to exercise, eat well and sleep well, while negativity may contribute to unhealthy eating, self medication with drugs and/or alcohol, and unregulated sleep. 

It has long been proven through countless studies that thinking positively contributes to living longer and healthier lives. Positive thinking also has a positive effect on our ability to heal and recover from illness. 

When you notice yourself thinking negatively, force yourself to find one positive thing to focus on. The more you do that, the more you will develop a habit of thinking positively. 

Happy Thoughts!