Optimist’s Brain Works Differently

The optimist’s brain focuses, processes, and understands reality differently.  This ability to see rays of light in a place where others see only the wall and darkness comes from a particular area of ​​the brain. This area has been practiced with openness, flexibility, perseverance, and the ability to better manage daily stress.

So is it true that an optimist’s brain is different from a pessimist’s brain? As we can assume, the two have no anatomical difference. All people have the same brain structures and areas. The difference is in how these areas are activated and how they relate to each other.

After all, our brains are a reflection of who we are. It tells you what we do, what to think and how to face life.  We know, for example, that chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels cause changes in the hippocampus, almond nucleus, and limbic system. As a result, memory may fail, concentration becomes difficult, and decision-making is limited.

While the human brain is an amazing organ, it also has its own limitations. It is not always as effective as we would like it to be. We know that some people are genetically more prone to depression and anxiety. Others are more resilient and can withstand stress better. This is based on a subtle combination of genetics, upbringing, education, and personal coping mechanisms.

All of this points to one simple truth: the brain shows incredible plasticity. This means that we all have the ability to train our brains to be more optimistic.

Are the brains of an optimist innate or are they “educated”?

We may know someone who is an eternal optimist. Such a person will never choose anything. His positive attitude never wobbles, not even in the worst of situations. Such a person also has an incredible ability to inspire others to be optimistic. So how does he do this? Has such a person been born into a world of optimism with a chip installed in his brain? Or is this optimism the result of years of education and positive psychology?

A  study by King’s College London reveals something interesting on this same subject. 25% of people with a positive attitude are born this way, and thanks to this belongs to genetics. In other words, they have received their optimism from their parents. Everyone else is optimistic about personal choice, attitude, and determination.

Dr. Leah Weiss, a professor at the University of Sanford and an expert in workplace awareness, says there are naturally optimistic people. But many optimists are as they are because of the decisions they make. When they face a problem, they decide which attitude they choose and how to handle that situation to bring about change.

What is the brain of an optimist like? What sets them apart?

Before we explain what an optimist’s brain is, there are a few things we need to understand. First, optimism is not the same thing as happiness. Optimism uses all strategies and abilities that could improve quality of life. Optimism includes abilities and prejudices that promote happiness.

• The positive attitude of the optimist’s brain comes from a certain ability. This is the ability to manage stressors on a daily basis.
• Optimists do not hide from the darkness and challenges of life. On the contrary, the optimist accepts them and tries to get the most out of the situation.
• This optimistic view makes it easier to manage feelings of grief. Optimistic people suffer less from anxiety and depression. They are also able to build stronger and more satisfying relationships.

The brain of the optimist and the left hemisphere

Dr. Richard Davidson is the director of the Laboratory of Affective Neuroscience at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He has conducted several studies to show something both interesting and revealing. He explained the results of his research in one of his articles:

“When people are anxious, angry, or frustrated, the almond nucleus and right frontal lobe are the areas of the brain that are most active. While for  people who are positive, optimistic, enthusiastic and energetic, the left forehead is more active. ”

This study shows that positive emotions activate the left hemisphere more than the right. Dr. Richard Davidson says, “After numerous studies of activity between the brain block and emotions, we have realized that most people are optimistic. Those who tend to be more unhappy and suffer from depression or anxiety have more activity on the right side of the brain. ”

We end the article with the idea of ​​Daniel Goleman. This is something he often emphasizes in his books and articles: he believes that every person is capable of developing flexibility, positivity, and an open attitude.

It’s about learning to manage stress and our emotions better so that they work for us. Let’s put a focus on our gaze and focus on the horizon.