HEALTH: The Benefits of an “I Can Do Anything” Mindset

Let's take five minutes to see this week in a new light.

ByWendy Rose Gould
& Amy Morin, LCSW, Editor-in-Chief

Top of Mind

The Benefits of an "I Can Do Anything" Mindset

Doubting ourselves can have a multitude of repercussions. It can prevent us from pursuing opportunities, taking joyful leaps, and exploring new things. On the flip side, adopting an "I can do anything" mentality gives us confidence to walk down new avenues and enjoy exciting experiences. This optimistic outlook can also improve our overall wellness and happiness.

Believing you have agency to achieve and make things happen is powerful."

— BARBARA FIELD, WRITER

How a Positive Mindset Can Benefit You

An "I can do anything" outlook can benefit you in some surprising ways:

Boosts self-esteem both immediately and in the long run.
Improves self-confidence
Fosters a positive future outlook on life
Drives intrinsic motivation
Leads to a longer life

Ways to Reduce Pessimism

Pessimism may occur inherently, but it's also something we cultivate over time. Here are some effective ways to minimize a negative mindset:

Identify negative thoughts and behaviors so you can curb them in the moment. Be aware of how often these negative feelings come up.
Challenge feelings of self-doubt
Consider the consequences of past negativity
Remind yourself that good things can come from leaning toward a positive outlook
Celebrate your past successes and use them to drive yourself
Be patient. It takes time to adjust to new habits.

Maintaining Balance

There's certainly a balance between keeping a positive mindset, being realistic, and avoiding unhealthy positivity where you don't allow yourself to feel true feelings. That said, having confidence in yourself, trying new things, and believing that things will work out doesn't mean you have to overlook reality or whitewash issues.

On the Bright Side

Ways to Stay Positive This Week

Ways to Nurture Your Mind and Body

This week, take 10 minutes to identify a moment where a negative mindset held you back from doing something. What might the outcome have looked like if you took an "I can do anything" mindset?

Stimulate your senses and experience the many benefits of color therapy with the CMY Cube, which lets you explore the beauty of color and light in the palm of your hand.

Created by expert therapists, Therapy Notebooks provide a safe space for guided reflection to track your mood, enhance therapy sessions, and cultivate a deeper connection with yourself.

This Week on the Verywell Mind Podcast

On tomorrow's episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast, I talk with actress Cobie Smulders. Tune in to hear her insights about how to teach kids resilience.

Follow Now: Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts