Could there be a realistic way to get more happiness in your life? Similarly, could there be a way to get more of what you want in your life?
Would it be crazy to say that all you need is hope? Hope gives us the energy we need to change for the better.
In recent years, scientists have developed a greater understanding of the mysteries surrounding hope. New evidence has emerged revealing how we can access hope and its power.
First, it’s important to clarify that hope is not the same as optimism. While the two words are sometimes used interchangeably, they work differently: With optimism, we believe the future will have positive outcomes. With hope, we believe it’s possible to influence outcomes. In other words, being able to influence our future is what gives us hope.
Historically, the field of psychology has focused its efforts on alleviating suffering by reducing or eliminating negative emotions. It’s only been within the past 20 years that psychology has turned its attention to positive emotions such as hope.
We are finding that hope is a teachable resource for transformation. It empowers people. It helps them develop realistic beliefs that they can bring about positive outcomes.
These strides in positive psychology are more important now than ever. As we continue to live through the debilitating effects of the global pandemic and civil unrest, hope can be one of our most effective tools for coping with these stressors.
At FEI, our goal is to provide hope, help and healing through our various programs and services. To learn more, please visit our website. To learn more about the “the theory of learned hopefulness,” click here.