Thankfully, you can train your brain to go from pessimist to optimist with the help of your your Reticular Activating System (RAS). Read on…
I write a lot about how to go from pessimist to optimist on my Notsalmon Instagram page and inside my bestselling personal development books.
But today I want to share about how being a pessimist or optimist can depend on how wisely you employ your Reticular Activating System (RAS).
Sounds complicated – but it’s really very simple!
Probably you’ve already noticed how some people always seem to have a positive outlook on life… even in the midst of challenging situations?
Meanwhile, others seem to always focus on the negative aspects of life… even in seemingly good situations.
Well, this difference in perspective is largely due to the way that people process information and perceive the world.
Some people are optimists – because they are positive evidence collectors.
- Positive evidence collectors tend to focus on the positive aspects of their lives, notice the good things going on around them… and thereby they generally have a more optimistic outlook.
Other people are pessimists – because they are negative evidence collectors.
- Negative evidence collectors tend to focus on the negative aspects of their lives, notice the bad things going on around them… and thereby they have a more pessimistic outlook.
Thankfully, you can train yourself to go from pessimist to optimist
How? By training yourself to become an intentional positive evidence collector – and mindfully start focusing on the good things in your life.
One way to do this is by understanding how your brain processes information and how your attention is directed by the Reticular Activating System (RAS).
What is the Reticular Activating System (RAS)?
The RAS is a group of nerves located at the base of our brainstem that acts as a filter for our conscious awareness. This system helps us focus on the things that we need to pay attention to and filters out the things that are not relevant to us.
The RAS is responsible for sorting through the massive amounts of information that our brains receive every second. And it prioritizes the information that it believes to be the most important for us to be aware of.
How your Reticular Activating System (RAS) can make you an optimist (or pessimist)
The RAS takes what you focus on and puts a filter on it… so your brain can “pick out” the thing you want to find within all the busy noise and chaos around you.- It’s why when someone tells you about a brand of clothes they’re loving right now, you suddenly hear everyone else talking about it.
- Or, why when someone encourages you to look for the positives in your life… you find them!
- And why when you’re thinking negatively, you just notice all the crappy things in your life and in the world!
Your mission?
Train your RAS to focus on the positive aspects of your life, so you become an intentional “positive evidence collector.”
Remember: Becoming a positive evidence collector is not about being blindly optimistic. It’s about taking control of your perception and focusing on the positive aspects of your life.
When you become a positive evidence collector, you’re making intentional use of your Reticular Activating System (RAS) – and purposefully filtering your thoughts and environment for reasons to feel positive and happy!
The more you look for the positive, the more easy it will be become to find the positive – thanks to your Reticular Activating System (RAS)!
Making the shift from being a negative evidence collector to a positive evidence collector can be challenging at first, but it’s worth the effort.
- Studies have found that individuals who tend to focus on positive aspects of their lives are less likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. They are also more resilient in the face of adversity and have better overall mental health outcomes.
How can you become a “positive evidence collector”?
Each day make it a habit to mindfully direct your attention towards the positive aspects of your life. Here are some simple techniques that can help.
- Start small: Focus on the good things in your life, no matter how small they may seem. By directing your attention towards the positive, you can begin to shift your perspective – and eventually your Reticular Activating System (RAS) will take over -and begin to more regularly and naturally focus on the positive aspects of your life.
- Challenge negative thoughts: When negative thoughts arise, challenge them by asking yourself if they are really true or if there might be a more positive way to view the situation.
- Practice self-compassion: It’s okay to have negative thoughts and feelings. Practice self-compassion and kindness towards yourself as you work on becoming a more positive evidence collector.
- Practice gratitude: Take a few moments each day to reflect on the things that you are grateful for. No matter how small they may seem, focusing on the good things in your life can help shift your attention away from the negative.
- Practice mindfulness: By becoming more aware of your negative thought patterns and learning to redirect your attention towards positive aspects of your life, you can become better and better at positive evidence collecting.
- Surround yourself with positive influences: Spend time with people who have a positive outlook on life, consume positive media, and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
In conclusion…
I encourage you to start focusing on the positive aspects of your life and become a positive evidence collector. Use the tips and techniques I’ve shared here to train your Reticular Activating System (RAS) to focus on the good things in your life! Get ready for your mental wellbeing to improve. Wishing you a brighter, more positive future.
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