Can a Positive Mindset Change the Course of a Terminal Illness?
I’ve always been a glass half-full kind of guy, finding that a positive outlook makes a dramatic difference in how you approach life. Suffering from Stage IV cancer, with a 25% chance of reaching my 70th birthday, has tested this outlook of late. Too many mornings with little to no energy can do that.
But does that mean I should just crawl into bed and wait things out? No way, no how. Preventing issues from becoming obstacles requires a mindset that believes things are solvable, or at least that you can find something positive within the obstacle.
Having this illness has allowed me to realize how precious life is, the importance of healthy relationships, the benefits of maintaining a thirst for life, and to keep moving. Always keep moving. Chase those bucket list items, read those books on your shelves, delve deeper into your passions, help the guy next door out.
Maintaining a positive spirit is not just about yourself, but also about those around you and the lens through which you view the world. I’ve been fortunate to have friends and family who embody positivity. I believe my recent spate of good health is a result of this.
As I mentioned, I am a naturally positive person. However, maintaining a positive outlook requires action and integrating specific activities into your daily routine. The activities that I have incorporated into my lifestyle are:
Journaling
- Writing about my thoughts and feelings provides an outlet for emotional expression. It helps in processing and releasing negative emotions. By seeing my thoughts on paper, I am able to better organize them, which offers a clearer perspective on situations and makes challenges seem more manageable and less overwhelming.
- While it may seem quirky, I keep a gratitude journal where I write about things I am thankful for. It shifts my focus from the negative to the positive aspects of life.
- Writing about challenges is key in problem-solving and identifying potential solutions, making me feel more in control and optimistic about overcoming obstacles.
Mindfulness
- Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. Easier said than done, but I try to become more of a witness to a situation rather than a participant. This switch allows me not to be caught up in what is occurring and to be more objective and less judgmental. This practice reduces rumination on past events and anxiety about the future, fostering a sense of peace and positivity.
- I incorporate practices such as meditation and deep breathing to reduce stress levels by calming my mind and body. Lower stress levels are associated with a more positive outlook and improved overall well-being.
- Mindfulness fosters acceptance of the present moment as it is, which is helpful in dealing with the uncertainties of terminal illness. Acceptance aids in building resilience, enabling me to face challenges with a positive and adaptive mindset.
- Through mindfulness, coupled with journaling, I gain a deeper understanding of my thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, which leads to more intentional and positive choices.
Establishing Boundaries
- This lesson took me a long time to embrace and establish. Being in a toxic relationship is unnecessary and harmful to your health. It doesn’t matter if they are a friend, family, or significant other—it’s damaging in many ways. There’s a quote I like, though I don’t know who said it: “Don’t walk from negative people—run!” Reducing negative interactions and emotional burdens helps lower the risk of stress-related health issues, such as high blood pressure and weakened immune function.
- Setting boundaries helps me identify and foster relationships that are respectful and supportive, contributing to my own personal growth and positivity.
- Clear boundaries ensure that you don’t overextend yourself or take on more than you can handle, which is crucial for avoiding burnout and maintaining mental health.
Maintaining a positive mindset amidst a terminal illness can indeed change the course of one’s journey. By focusing on journaling, practicing mindfulness, and establishing healthy boundaries, you can foster a sense of peace, resilience, and hope. This mindset not only improves your own quality of life but also positively influences those around you. While the road may be challenging, embracing positivity empowers you to live fully, cherishing each moment and leaving a lasting impact on the world and the people you love. Remember, positivity is not just a choice but a powerful tool that transforms adversity into a celebration of life.
References:
1. Chida, Y., & Steptoe, A. (2008). Positive psychological well-being and mortality: A quantitative review of prospective observational studies. Psychosomatic Medicine, 70(7), 741-756. https://doi.org/10.1097/PSY.0b013e31818105ba - This meta-analysis reviewed the association between positive psychological well-being and mortality. It found that positive well-being was associated with reduced mortality in both healthy and diseased populations.
2. Cohen, S., & Pressman, S. D. (2006). Positive affect and health. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 15(3), 122-125. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.0963-7214.2006.00420.x - This review explored the impact of positive affect on health. The authors concluded that positive affect is associated with lower morbidity and mortality, better immune function, and healthier behaviors.
3. Seligman, M. E. P., Steen, T. A., Park, N., & Peterson, C. (2005). Positive psychology progress: Empirical validation of interventions. American Psychologist, 60(5), 410-421. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.60.5.410 - Research by Martin Seligman, a pioneer in positive psychology, has demonstrated that positive emotions and optimistic thinking can improve physical health outcomes and psychological resilience.
Comments