3 Ways to Bring Out Your Inner Optimist (Page 4)

3. Connect with others: Hanson also emphasizes the value of a solid social network, saying that caregivers need to try and seek out as many opportunities for social interaction as they can. He says that caregivers seeking to become more optimistic need a diverse support network that can offer them camaraderie and support along their journey, as well as an opportunity to vent. Being a caregiver for both his mother and father, Hanson knows that finding time to socialize can be challenging for time-strapped caregivers, and encourages them to just do what they can. It may also help to broaden your idea of what social interaction means. Animals and kids are two sources of socialization that most people may not think to utilize, but Hanson says that they can supply caregivers with much-needed comfort and perspective.

It’s true that focusing on a beautiful sunset won’t make you deaf to your loved one’s resentful complaints, or make changing their diaper a pleasant task, but Hanson points out that research has consistently shown that people, no matter their circumstances, can learn to see the world in a more balanced way.

Will these tips work for you?

As with all things, you’ll never know until you try. Challenge yourself to really take the time and employ these strategies; then let us know what you think by commenting below.

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3 Ways to Bring Out Your Inner Optimist originally appeared on AgingCare.com.

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Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
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Huber F.

10:02AM PST on Dec 9, 2012

Thanx

December 9
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Gloria O.

6:29AM PDT on Oct 5, 2012

Excelente artículo. Gracias.

October 5
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Dale O.

8:22AM PDT on Jul 31, 2012

One can always divert one's attention from pessimistic thoughts if these are not too stressful by watching the light cast by a prism shaped in a triangle seeing the colourful light dance on the walls or certainly flowers always bring out the joy of looking at delicate and delightful things while a tasty home cooked meal brings a sense of pleasure. So many things can bring optimism especially a peaceful walk in a forest or rural area.

July 31
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Everything of course depends on circumstance ~ what is taking place in the moment...
at midnight this morning I logged onto Flickr a global photo site. In my mail box there were emails waiting. One with the stark words, "Hi dear Dale, terrible news about ... I have no words" with a direction to a link taking me to a friend's photo stream. She had also moderated for the same group as do I before having a baby recently.

Her husband informed friends "with pain in my heart that my wife has died instantly in a car accident." This reminded me of the death of my brother in a car crash that took place on my parent's Wedding Anniversary in 2009, also dying instantly. This morning's news of her sudden death is shocking, cruel and tragic.

In disbelief and tears I remembered both ~ how quickly things can come crashing down in a wink of an eye. Nothing is for certain ~ even the life of a 38 year-old mother with 5 month old baby.

Optimism depends on the day and circumstance. Robin is right, later on one can help others but sometimes the day begins with negativity ~ some days there are just tears!

1:51PM PDT on Jun 6, 2012

Useful tips.

June 6
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Carole K.

7:47AM PDT on Jun 5, 2012

Is there anything in life that is more uplifting & positive than animals & children? One would be hard pressed to find such a phenomenon. This article has excellent suggestions not only for caregivers but anyone alive & active in the world. Attitude is the largest element of human experience. YOU can control whether you have sunshine or clouds in your day. It all boils down to internal vs external locus of control; & I prefer to be my own piper, even if the melody is a little strange to someone else's ear. My life is my song; but you don't have to listen if you'd rather not. Just don't rain on my parade; & I promise not to rain on yours!