Optimism improves a person’s ability to develop friendships and supportive relationships because it motivates people to think that other people will like them. Having friends and social supports helps reduce people’s risk for disease, particularly the recurrence of chronic disorders.
Researchers tell us that connecting with others and forming friendships is both physically and emotionally healthy. We all like to be around people who are upbeat, inspire us, and make us feel better. Optimists do that. Think of the difference you’ll make for others and yourself by adopting a more optimistic view.