From how we think and feel to how we age, love, sleep and even earn, the benefits of a hopeful mindset are far-reaching.
Optimists are certainly in the majority: around 80 percent of people are optimists, which tends to encourage persistence, cooperation and ambition.
Critically, optimists believe they can control their lives and make improvements.
While optimism is partly genetic and related to upbringing and circumstances, there is evidence it can be cultivated.
These ten studies uncover just how much the outlook can shape our lives.
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Author: Dr Jeremy Dean
Psychologist, Jeremy Dean, PhD is the founder and author of PsyBlog. He holds a doctorate in psychology from University College London and two other advanced degrees in psychology. He has been writing about scientific research on PsyBlog since 2004. View all posts by Dr Jeremy Dean