Mary Ann, an 85-year-old resident at Magnolia Gardens, has a reputation for being quietly optimistic, despite living with loss and grief. “When I think back on my life and all the good things that have happened—especially over such a long time—I’m just amazed,” she says.
Research shows that when older adults engage in positive thinking, it can improve resilience and overall life satisfaction. In other words, choosing to be happy makes you happier!
But life is difficult, and aging is no walk in the park. Optimism isn’t about ignoring those challenges; it’s about noticing the good that surrounds us and allowing it to influence our thinking.
THE ART OF REFRAMING
Mary Ann is adept at using one of the most powerful tools for growing and strengthening optimism: reframing. Reframing means looking at a situation from a different angle and asking yourself, “What’s another way to interpret this?”
When asked about the secret to looking on the bright side of life, Mary Ann beautifully captures the art of reframing, “I try not to worry about the things I can’t control. Because some things just aren’t yours to handle and you can’t do anything about that.”
Reframing doesn’t erase difficult emotions, but it helps us move through challenges with steadiness and clarity. “I take it one day at a time. Today has enough trouble of its own, and I don’t need to worry about tomorrow.”
SMALL STEPS TO CULTIVATE JOY
Reframing is one way to strengthen your joy muscle, but it’s not the only one. These small habits can have a huge impact on your mindset.
- Live gratefully. Notice the good and the beautiful around you—no matter how small. You can train your brain to see more and more good around you.
- Celebrate your strengths. Be intentional about appreciating yourself. A lifetime of skills, experiences, and wisdom is worth acknowledging and appreciating.
- Spend time with uplifting people. Optimism is contagious. Surround yourself with those who inspire and lift you up.
- Limit negative talk—about yourself and others. Thumper the rabbit had it right, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say nothing at all.”
- Seek out meaningful connections. Clubs, churches, activities, volunteer roles, and senior living communities create opportunities for relationships that lead to purpose and joy.
Optimism may not solve every challenge, but it can make each day feel lighter, richer, and more meaningful. As Mary Ann shows us, a hopeful mindset grows stronger each time we choose to engage it!
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