Why exactly should we think more positively?
The Science (and Practice) of Thinking More Positively
How small mindset shifts can change everything—from your health to your happiness.
In a world that feels dominated by deadlines, uncertainty, and constant comparison, thinking positively can sound… overly simple.
But research consistently shows that the way we think shapes the way we live. A positive mindset doesn’t mean ignoring life’s challenges—it means choosing to face them with greater awareness, and a feeling that there are more opportunities and possibilities ahead.
Why Positivity Matters
Positive thinking has powerful, measurable effects on both mind and body. Here are the two effects that I personally find most compelling:
It strengthens your health.
Studies from Harvard University found that people who are more optimistic have a significantly lower risk of major health issues—including heart disease, stroke, and cancer—and tend to live longer overall. Optimism seems to act as a buffer against chronic stress, reducing inflammation and supporting immune function.It supports success and well-being.
A University of Pennsylvania study found that optimistic employees are more engaged, productive, and adaptable to change. Similarly, people who intentionally cultivate gratitude and positivity report higher satisfaction in both work and life. One Harvard Business Review article pointed out the links between optimism and financial success.
So yes, studies have identified links between thinking more positively and feeling better and showing up differently in the world.
5 Practical Ways to Start Thinking More Positively
1. Catch your inner critic
Try to notice when your inner voice turns harsh or critical. Pause and reframe. Instead of “I’ll never get this right,” try “This is hard, but I’m learning.” Over time, this small shift rewires your brain for growth rather than defeat.
2. Start (and end) with gratitude
Write down three things you’re grateful for each morning or before bed. They don’t need to be profound—a good cup of coffee or a text from a friend counts. Regular gratitude practice has been linked to better sleep, stronger relationships, and improved emotional health.
3. Surround yourself with positive inputs
What you read, watch, and listen to matters. Choose media, conversations, and communities that energize you, rather than drain your energy. Plus, this might actually be bigger than you! Positivity is contagious, so let’s §pass it on.
4. Practice realistic optimism
This isn’t about blind positivity. It’s about acknowledging challenges while still believing you can influence outcomes. For example: “This project is stressful, but I’ve managed challenges like this before.”
5. Take a moment for mindfulness
When stress spikes, take a few deep breaths, step outside, or do a one-minute grounding exercise. Even short pauses calm your nervous system, helping you return to a more balanced state—and a clearer mindset.
Positivity is not about perfection!
Rather, it’s about perspective. It’s about making a choice to direct your energy toward what you can change and releasing what you can’t. It’s learning to treat yourself with the same compassion you’d extend to others. And it’s remembering that optimism isn’t a personality trait…it’s a practice. Just like building muscles, it takes a little work.
And it’s worth the effort! Over time, this practice builds emotional resilience, creativity, and even courage. When you feel better on the inside, it naturally shows up in your relationships, leadership, and overall sense of fulfillment.
Are you ready to change your mindset?
If you could use a little guidance to help you build a more positive, empowered mindset, I’d love to help.
Explore Positivity & Mindset Coaching, a 3-month program designed to help you shift your thinking, build habits around seeing the positive, strengthen resilience, and thrive at work and/or in life.
