Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — As we head into the holidays, many of us start looking ahead, hoping next year will be a little brighter. Research shows that hope is more than just optimism, it’s a scientifically proven strength that boosts health, happiness, and resilience.
As the lights go up and the year winds down we look back on headlines that test our faith in humanity. But we also look for the stories that remind us of the good. Some believe we need hope more than ever.
New research from the University of Missouri found people who feel hopeful report greater life satisfaction, stronger relationships, and a higher sense of purpose. Psychologists say hope is a mindset.
“Get some meaning, some personal connection out of something that is pretty bad and can be a bit scary,” said James McKowen, PhD, Clinical Psychologist.
Psychologist James McKowen says hope can be a powerful buffer against stress, anxiety and uncertainty, especially in young people. In his research, he’s seen hope grow when people take action, like joining a community project or helping others in need.
“Many of them brought up hope because they were all brought together,” explained McKowen.
The Jed Foundation calls hope a skill you can build.
Start small: write down three good things each day, set a goal you can reach and stay connected … because loneliness can dim hope faster than failure.
Psychologists say hopeful people set more goals and follow through on them and that hopeful mindset predicts success even more than intelligence or optimism. So, as you head into the new year take a moment to reflect, connect, and hope.
Contributors to this news report include: Marsha Lewis, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.
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Sources:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S009265661000067X?utm_source=chatgpt.com
