What does it mean to practice optimism? Some people seem to have it naturally while others choose it. I think of myself as a naturally optimistic person but in the current world situation it can be difficult to keep my head on straight.
Last weekend I took my first plane trip since the beginning of Covid-19. I traveled directly from Detroit to New York City where the virus cases seem to be declining. The decision to make this trip really messed with my brain. It was such a difficult decision to make, weighing the pros and cons of traveling during a pandemic. Never before have I had so much anxiety about traveling. Well, maybe in 2001, after 9/11 - I was very anxious after that.
Why did I travel? I really wanted to visit my son who I have not seen since February. I wanted to see his new apartment, his place of work, and visit with him and his girlfriend. I wanted to do all these things and still be as safe as possible and that was a real exercise in optimistic thinking.
Here is how I practiced daily optimism while traveling in a pandemic.
First, I chose to think optimistically. When my brain told me that the plane would be full of germs and coughing people, I told my brain that the airline would be keeping things clean, distancing passengers, and filtering air. I decided on purpose that I would wear my best mask and keep myself as far away from everyone as possible. I decided that I am a healthy person that has a great immune system and nothing to worry about. I chose not to worry.
Second, I actively looked for all things positive. The weather was beautiful, the airport was virtually empty, the people were polite, and New York was amazing. I spent time with my son visiting, walking, and eating - too much eating - we had a beautiful time. The fact that all of our site-seeing time was spent walking around town and riding the ferry, allowed us to see all the beautiful sites of the city without the crowds. I looked for all things positive and that is what I saw.
Third, I filled my life with supportive and optimistic people both before and after the trip. Having people in your circle to listen to your concerns and help you to see things more optimistically is one way to stay in touch with your positive thoughts. When you choose to keep a team of supportive people around you things will look better to you. Optimism will feel easier to accomplish.
When you are feeling a bit pessimistic, remember that you have the power and ability to change the way that you think to become more optimistic. Starting with small positive thoughts and then building on them will result in a positivity habit. Our lives can never be safe and secure 100% of the time, and if we wait for total security and lack of risk, we will never reach our goals and truly live.
Think things through and choose how you want to live, then practice daily optimism to help you take action. You may even decide to travel to New York.
Dr. Julie Cappel
“It’s not that optimism solves all of life’s problems; it is just that it can sometimes make the difference between coping and collapsing.”
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