The connection between the mind and body is strong, so an overall positive attitude – including an upbeat outlook on life – can affect overall happiness, health, and well-being. Similar to good health practices such as eating well and getting plenty of exercise, a positive attitude should be a habit that starts early in life. 

A positive attitude can impact mental health and physical functioning, including the ability to fight disease and infection. Attitude can also affect relationships, social networks, and help make success in life more likely. The bottom line: being more positive across the lifespan causes less stress and enables people to live healthier, happy lives.

Being able to accept and adapt to change plays an important role in having a positive attitude, especially as life is filled with ups and downs. This point hit home with my husband John, and me, a couple of years ago when John hit a patch of black ice on his bicycle, falling and fracturing his hip. Confined to a lift chair for six weeks while being non weight bearing, could have been difficult to overcome. I’m convinced that his motivation to follow the doctor’s orders, and the great support of neighbors and family, made a huge difference in his healing. Almost four months to the day of his accident, he was back riding a bike which put a smile on his face.

Our Adult Development and Aging Specialist introduced the “Keys to Embracing Aging” materials to Extension educators across Kansas in 2016. The fact sheet titled; “Positive Attitude” encourages people  to do something they love every day. It could be something like playing the piano or going for a walk. Embracing a hobby or activity provides a sense of purpose in life because it is something that you can create and nurture.

Everyone has a bad day once in a while, but in general, a positive attitude and happy outlook can help pull you through life’s challenges. Having an upbeat and proactive outlook on life over time can also contribute to better health and optimal aging, including longevity.

Donna Krug is the Family & Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Contact her at 620-793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu.