Positive psychology deals with the psychological aspects of living a fulfilling and flourishing life. “Mind over matter” is relevant and intrinsic to one’s quest for ‘betterness’ and healing, and more and more science is proving what many Grandmothers have been saying for generations – that there is a direct correlation between one’s health and one’s state of mind and body. Having a positive disposition is a complementary antidote that we can all dispense to ourselves, no matter our state of health, and it’s the one prescription that only has benefits: there are no negative side effects!

Being Realistic
While we all hear probably over and over how important it is to think and be positive, if you are in the trenches of caring for a loved one who is very ill, or are facing health challenges of your own, we understand that you may be struggling just to find your footing. Sometimes hearing from others “Dear, smile – everything will be okay; stay positive” simply makes you want to toss a self–help book into a bonfire. Those of us at Choosing Joy understand this, and we also know that finding and creating positivism – in the face of adversity – is possible. Check out how members of the Choosing Joy community, who have “been there”, have learned what works for them. Read entries and see how their choices to find personal positivism have contributed to a better quality of life. It is a process and a journey, and what works for each of us can be vary, but the great news is that we can all learn from each other and be supported in the process.

Being Committed
It might surprise you to know that a lot of scientific research backs up the whole notion that positive people are generally happier, and that happiness statistically translates into improved longevity. One study of aging nuns found that those with a positive outlook in their 20s lived as much as a decade longer than those with a more negative outlook; and people who were asked to keep a diary every night for six months – recording things that had gone well that day – fared better in measures of happiness, optimism, and physical health over those who did not keep such a diary. A diary is one of the many elements we built into The Living Index. Happiness, self-esteem, empathy, friendship, love, achievement, creativity, music, spirituality, humor, dance … Positivism is not a destination – it truly is a journey, and we can all make the decision to choose the path that is paved with these joyful elements… the path that puts us solidly on the road to ‘betterness’.

Food … er, Thoughts for Thought:
There’s still fun for females after 50! Check out www.redhatsociety.com

Has anyone heard of a hat society for men? Let us know

We can take care of our minds, just as we take care of our bodies; below is just a couple of ideas. For more, check out contributions from the Choosing Joy community!
www.self-esteem-nase.org
www.louisehay.com/affirmation.php