Is Your Glass Half Empty? Refill it with Optimism

"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." – Winston Churchill

Are you someone who sees the glass as half full (optimistic) or half empty (pessimistic)? Maybe you lean toward pessimism in certain areas of life but want to cultivate a more positive perspective.  If so, keep reading!

I love how happiness researcher Shawn Achor reframes the classic "glass half-full or half-empty" analogy. He suggests: "The contents of the glass don’t matter; what’s more important is to realize there’s a pitcher of water nearby. In other words, we have the capacity to refill the glass, or to change our outlook."  

So remember, even when your glass feels empty, you have the power to refill it.  You can replenish your energy, shift your outlook, and embrace a more optimistic mindset.  When pessimism creeps in, try broadening your perspective – noticing not just what’s missing but also the resources, possibilities, and opportunities that surround you.

How to Shift from Pessimism to Optimism

When negative thoughts occupy our minds, it can be challenging to shift perspectives.  But here are some things you can do when you notice those thoughts trying to take over.

Journal Your Thoughts

Write down your negative thoughts and look for recurring patterns.  Awareness is the first step in changing your mindset.

Reframe Your Perspective

Try turning negative statements into something more constructive.  For example, replace “I always fail” with “I’ve failed before, but I’ve also succeeded, and I can try again.”  If that feels like too big of a leap, start with a neutral statement like “This is difficult, but I can figure it out.”

This applies not only to your thoughts but also to the words you speak.

Practice Gratitude

You’ve likely heard me talk about the power of gratitude before, and that’s because it works!  When you feel stuck in negativity, shift your focus to what’s right in your life.  Take a moment to list everything you’re grateful for – big or small.

Use EFT Tapping

Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) can help break the cycle of negativity.  Tap along with me in one of my many YouTube videos or use my Create Your Own Tapping Script worksheet to personalize your practice.

Move Your Body

Physical movement releases endorphins, helping you to shift your mood.  Even a few minutes of exercise can make a difference.  Try Dr. Zach Bush’s Nitric Oxide dump or simply take a brisk walk.

Spend Time in Nature

Nature has a powerful way of restoring our mindset.  Try grounding (walking barefoot on the earth) to reconnect and reset. Get some Vitamin D from the sun!

Do What Brings You Joy

Hobbies and activities that light you up can instantly improve your mood.  Whether it’s painting, reading, dancing, or playing an instrument – prioritize joy.

Reach for the Pitcher

Being optimistic doesn’t mean ignoring reality.  It means choosing how you respond to life’s challenges.  Some days, your glass may feel half empty, and that’s okay.  Just remember, you have access to a pitcher – a reservoir of tools, habits, and practices that can help you refill it.

Whenever you need a boost, be sure to check out my video “Feeling Pessimistic” for a guided EFT Tapping session to help shift your mindset.

Here’s to refilling your glass!