Optimism is a trait that should become more common, life is not all doom and gloom and there are always many more positives than negatives. It is just that very often we take the positives for granted and focus on the negatives.

People who are optimistic are more committed to reaching their goals, are more satisfied with their lives and overall have better mental health. There are some simple ways you can live a more optimistic life;

Remember past triumphs. Focusing on your strengths and qualities that have helped you through a difficult time in the past, remember them and use them. Optimists know they will get through some setbacks

Making goals for yourself. When times are tough, or you are struggling, it can help to set yourself goals. Making goals achievable and ensuring that you have a few short term as well as longer term, more ambitious goals, can help us feel that we’re making progress. It doesn’t matter if your goal for the day is something small, the important thing is to give yourself the opportunity to feel like you’ve achieved something and to celebrate that!

Be kind to yourself. Instead of berating yourself when things don’t work out the way you planned, it’s about treating yourself with kindness and compassion. But always remember progress takes time!

Action For Happiness has more ways to ensure you have more of an Optimistic October!