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Optimism: A Mindset That Can Change—and Even Extend—Your Life

  • Writer: Kirsten Gowdy
    Kirsten Gowdy
  • Nov 8
  • 3 min read
Person standing with a campaign sign at night.

I recently came across research suggesting that negativity can actually shorten your lifespan.  That idea stopped me in my tracks. So I went digging — and sure enough, there’s growing evidence that optimism and positive thinking are connected to longer, healthier,

and more fulfilling lives.


That insight resonated deeply. Because I’ve had seasons in my life that felt dark and uncertain — times filled with fear, doubt, and exhaustion. During those periods, it was easy to be pulled into the negativity around me.


But I eventually realized something powerful:

👉 I can’t always control what happens, but I can control how I respond.


That awareness was the beginning of a mindset shift — one that changed not just how I felt, but how I lived.


A Lesson from Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone

Recently, I ran for a local School Board position.  As a quiet introvert, campaigning publicly was far outside my comfort zone — knocking on doors, attending forums, and standing outside polling places for hours.


But what I discovered surprised me:

👉 Optimism connects & people respond to presence.


A genuine smile, a spark of warmth, or a humble “hello” made people light up. Many thanked me for showing up, wished me good luck, and even offered small kindnesses — one stranger offered to bring me a hot coffee on the cold Election night.


Those small moments reminded me that optimism is contagious. Having differing opinions on policy mattered but being able to smile, be respectful, hopeful and listen mattered more.  That passion resonated as I know people voted for me because I was there and willing to listen. Showing up with authenticity and positive energy can shift the tone of an entire interaction — just as it does in a coaching relationship.


What Coaching and Optimism Have in Common

That experience reminded me of what I love most about life coaching.  In a coaching relationship, the client leads the conversation. My role is to listen deeply, ask curious open-ended questions, and create a safe, nonjudgmental space for reflection and growth.


Just as I listened to community members share their hopes and concerns, I do the same with my clients — helping them uncover patterns of negative self-talk, build self-awareness, and discover how a shift in mindset can change everything.


👉Optimism coaching isn’t about pretending everything is fine.


It’s about learning how to reframe challenges, see possibilities, and move forward with clarity and confidence.


Reframing Negativity: A Practice That Changes Lives

Negativity is draining — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Negativity also narrows perspective and can be isolating, but optimism is a skill that can be practiced and strengthened.


As a coach, I help clients identify their patterns of negative thinking — the stories they tell themselves about what’s possible — and replace them with interpretations that fuel energy, resilience, and hope.


The stories we tell ourselves shape our lives.


👉 Do yours expand your potential, or drain your energy?


I’ve seen firsthand how choosing optimism changes outcomes—personally, professionally, and yes, maybe even for your longevity.


Ready to cultivate a mindset that fuels your growth? Let’s talk about how coaching can help you lead—and live—with more optimism and intention.


Want to know more?

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