Did you know that optimism strengthens our friendships and can actually make us healthier?³⁵ It can also be learned. This week, focus the conversation with your friends on positive things, like what you’re looking forward to this year, or something really awesome one of your friends did. You can try phrases like, “What are you guys looking forward to this weekend?” or “I can’t wait for next semester. ___ is going to be amazing!” Thought-starters like these are a great way to bring a conversation to a positive place and keep it there.
Shanahan for Ojai 