Patrice Dunagin

Positive thinking, or optimism, is crucial to how we perceive life. Research has shown that the traits of optimism and pessimism are innate personality traits. There are many things in life that we cannot control. But one aspect of our life that we do have the power to control is our optimism. There are several factors that may contribute to maintaining an optimistic attitude, such as your past experiences and the experiences of those around you. Optimism in a family can bring about positive results that will result in happiness and contentment for all family members.

Families that develop a positive attitude and are generally optimistic can weather most of life’s challenges and maintain healthy relationships under even adverse situations. An optimistic family may view life in the following ways:

– There is something good in every situation.

– Change is a positive sign of growth.

– A problem provides an opportunity to learn.

– A mistake is an opportunity to learn.

Happiness, confidence, satisfaction and love are keys to positive family relations

PRESCHOOL CHILDREN

Optimism is modeled best for young children by the significant adults in their lives. Children view the actions of the adults around them, and will often react in similar ways. If children constantly hear adults complaining and voicing negative attitudes, this tone will often generate undesirable behaviors and attitudes. Whereas, an adult who constantly smiles and has a positive attitude will assist children in developing an optimistic approach to life. Frustration and doubt can fuel negative thoughts. It is critical that young children are optimistic toward the challenges of learning new skills and mastering difficult tasks. Children are a product of their choices, not their circumstances. So we must strive to help them develop the necessary skills for wise decision-making.

ELEMENTARY CHILDREN

When children begin to socialize and observe the diversity of others through their early school experiences, it is critical that they possess a positive attitude and an optimistic approach to appreciating the differences in others. Early school experiences with classmates and teachers can set the tone for a youth’s development for years to come. Fostering a positive attitude and instilling confidence can empower children to view the world in a positive light. If children witness complaining, dissatisfaction, doubt, anger and pessimism, they will begin to display similar behaviors.

MIDDLE/JUNIOR HIGH ADOLESCENTS

During this critical time of self-awareness and growth, children need to exercise optimism and confidence so that they can handle the common challenges of growing up. Parents, teachers, older siblings, relatives and other significant adults must assist children in developing an optimistic approach to life that can empower them to reach their goals and achieve the highest level of personal satisfaction. Positive peer pressure can lead to the development of an optimistic attitude. However, pessimistic peers can cause children to view the world in a negative light. Therefore, it is critical that young people exercise care in selecting friends that have a positive influence on their lives. This awkward period of physical and emotion development should be approached with an optimistic and confident attitude.

HIGH SCHOOL TEENS

As young adults begin to experience the world with less direct adult guidance, it is critical that they be equipped with the skills necessary to cope with the daily pressures of adolescence. A positive and confident self-awareness can enable teens to face the difficult decisions and circumstances that are common during this stage of development. Teens facing challenging times may tend to become hopeless and frustrated. Adults need to realize that maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude is an ongoing process, and that teens may need continued guidance in their journey through adolescence.

ADULTS

Adults are faced with daily situations in their personal and professional lives that can be enhanced by an optimistic and positive outlook. As adults, we must constantly be aware that we can determine the atmosphere around us by maintaining a positive and optimistic view of life. Remember that a smile can send message of optimism and hope to our family, friends and co-workers.

For more information, contact Patrice Dunagin, Smith County FCS agent for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, at 903-590-2980.