We all know someone who is inherently optimistic no matter the time or situation. While it may annoy us, we also might secretly envy them. In addition, research shows that people who self-rated themselves as having high levels of optimism were more likely to live past 85 than those who don’t.

But can we train ourselves to become more optimistic even if our personality is rooted in either realism or even pessimism?

Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at changes you can make in to your mindset to help shift your outlook, regardless of outside factors like socioeconomic status.

Focus on Strengths

Think about what you feel or what other people tell you that your strengths are. If being kind makes you happy, perform acts of kindness. If you’re feeling best when you’re challenged to solve a problem, find a task that you can complete that will help you feel fulfilled.

Be Grateful

People often focus on the things they don’t have in life and take for granted what they do have. Actively practice gratitude by keeping a journal where you list what you’re thankful for. If you’re in good health, be sure to include that, as many do not appreciate their health until it starts to falter.

Envision Your Best Possible Self

Think about what you want to be doing in five of 10 years. This exercise helps you not only assess what you’re doing now, but it will tell yourself what’s important to you and what you care about most.

Practice What You Preach

It’s easy to try and stay positive when things are going well, but whether it’s a serious issue or just one of life’s annoyances, try to look toward a positive alternative that you can think about or do when something less than ideal is happening.

To learn more about Bushwick Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://bushwick-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.