Can Optimism Help You Live Longer?

Optimism has long been linked to improved health.

Now, there’s mounting evidence that those with a sunnier disposition might even live longer. 

A recent study found that people who have an optimistic nature record less stress in their daily lives. 

And since stress is a major cause of ill health — which increases the likelihood of dying early — there’s a distinct advantage to avoiding it. 

So, how do optimists do it?

Well, interestingly enough, it seems they don’t just limit their exposure to stressful situations. 

They also view fewer situations as being stressful in the first place. 

And this ability to positively reframe everyday stressors makes for a more hassle-free existence.

As Prof Andrew Steptoe, head of behavioural science and health at UCL, puts it…

“If you have an optimistic disposition, it seems quite plausible that you won’t regard relatively trivial occurrences in your life as stressful”.