Think it, speak it, live it.

• Author: Chapman, Jeffrey
• Position: MIND BODY

"If you find yourself in the grip of pessimism, stress, or depression, turning the tide and living a positive, productive, and rewarding life can seem nearly impossible. However, all it takes is one positive thought to get the ball rolling in the right direction."

IT IS SAD, but true: Americans are becoming overwhelmingly pessimistic, and there is no shortage of studies to prove it. Reported data shows that that a paltry six percent of U.S. citizens think the world is getting better, while a staggering two-thirds believe the country is moving in the wrong direction--at least before the election of Donald Trump. All of this growing negativity is taking a toll, with escalating pessimism, stress, and depression looming large across the nation. In fact, the most recent American Psychological Association's Stress in America survey cites that more than one-third of adults are experiencing increased stress over the previous year, while the National Center for Health Statistics shows suicide rates at a 30-year high.

Even those seemingly dedicated to making positive changes in their lives systematically fail. For instance, while many lean on New Year's resolutions in a heartfelt attempt to promote positive life changes, the chances of realizing those successes are slim. Reports indicate that upwards of 25% of people who make New Year's resolutions will have failed at keeping them a mere seven days into January. As for those who manage to outlast the week and stick it out the entire year?--eight percent.

While the statistics themselves may be depressing, there certainly is hope for those dedicated to making favorable changes. When put into practice, there are three timeless truths that can help people take their focus off of their problems in order to lead more positive, productive lives:

Think it. The mind has a powerful influence on the physical body--a belief that can be traced back to the fourth century with Hippocrates. Today, there is scientific evidence backing up the influence of the mind upon the body, which mainstream medicine leverages in a variety of treatments, from biofeedback and cognitive behavioral therapy to simple relaxation techniques--and one need not be involved in medicine to use this connection effectively. This timeless truth of thinking a productive life into being is applicable to most anyone. In order to unlock inner greatness at work, at home, in social circles, and with other aspects of life, you have to maintain a...