Why you should look on the bright side of life

Are you a glass-half-full person? While some people dismiss optimism as naivety or a tendency to overlook the challenges of life, research suggests that those who seek out the positives could benefit from improved wellbeing.

Research gathered by CNN in September 2025 found that people who have a positive, happy outlook live longer. Indeed, a 2011 study found that Brits who felt content, happy or excited on a typical day were up to 25% less likely to die prematurely.

Separate research linked optimism to a stronger immune system, better lung function, less pain, and better cardiac health.

One of the reasons behind the connection between optimism and health could be how people handle stress.

Everyone experiences stress at some point in their life, but people without good coping skills are at higher risk of heart disease, sleeping problems, depression, and obesity. Those who focus on the brighter side of life may handle setbacks better and maintain a positive outlook, even when things go wrong.

Interestingly, while you might think of your outlook as a fixed part of your personality, the research suggests you can train your brain to be happy. A study found that taking part in 30-minute daily meditation sessions produced measurable results in just two weeks.

So, carve out some time each day to practice focusing your mind and achieving an emotionally calm state.

3 ways to improve your outlook on life

With research suggesting that looking on the bright side of life could improve your health and wellbeing, these three steps could have far-reaching benefits.

1. Write a gratitude journal

It can be all too easy to focus on the negative. Even when you’ve had a good day overall, a bad interaction or disappointment can dampen your mood.

So, writing a gratitude journal at the end of each day could help you count your blessings rather than dwelling on the negative. At the end of each day, note down the things you’re thankful for, from big celebrations like being promoted to the small things that make you smile, like bumping into an old friend.

As well as focusing your mind on the positives of the day, a gratitude journal can be useful when you’re feeling down. Being able to look back at your successes and happy memories can make a huge difference to your mindset.

2. Find out what gives you purpose in life

The CNN research found that meaning in life was more important than regularly exercising or reducing drinking and smoking in decreasing the risk of premature death. In fact, people who don’t have a strong purpose in life, even if they are wealthy, are more than twice as likely to die prematurely.

If you already have a strong purpose, finding ways to dedicate more time to it could be beneficial. For example, if you love volunteering at a local charity, could you change or reduce your working hours to do it more often?

If you’ve yet to find your purpose, try exploring different activities to find out what motivates you. Many people find supporting others satisfying. This can range from spending time with your grandchildren to mentoring someone.

3. Make time for social connections

Finally, make time to connect with your loved ones and meet new people.

The CNN data found that social connections are important for a happy life. Indeed, social isolation can be as damaging to your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. So, forging satisfying relationships could make a huge difference to your optimism and overall health.

Regular meet-ups with family and friends can strengthen relationships and give you something to look forward to. If you’re looking to forge new friendships, social groups that focus on an activity you enjoy are an excellent starting place, whether you join a hiking group or attend academic lectures.