Did it feel like you have tried being a better person but had exhausted all possible options? Here are some thoughts to make it through the week even if you're just sitting in your working desk waiting for time to pass. An idea takes time to form in your head and is always at work while you are busy sitting. If you've placed second in a writing contest, will you jump for joy and push for better results the next time or will you be discouraged and find an excuse not to join again? It's easy to determine if you are a common optimist or a pessimist.

Optimism has been linked to positive mood and good morale; to academic, athletic, military, occupational and political success; to popularity; to good health and even to long life and freedom from trauma. With some creative problem-solving techniques you may be able to look at your problem in a different light. Having a bit of positive thinking can help you realize things that are never thought possible.

Optimists tend to focus on and plan for the 'problem' at hand. You must be open-minded to the fact that there may be more than just one solution to the problem. Such people are unfazed by bad situation, they perceive it is a challenge and try harder. Thinking big is indeed the American Way and that what made our country prosperous.

People respond positively to optimists. Commit to yourself as well as those you love to create powerfully a life you can love. Their optimistic view of the world can be contagious and influence those they are with.

Optimists are healthier and live longer than pessimists. Keep humor at the forefront of thought, laughing at and with yourself when possible. Medical research has justified that simple pleasures and a positive outlook can cause a measurable increase in the body's ability to fight disease.

Choose the person you want to become today. Why not look forward to success in all your endeavors? Why not be resilient? And just when you are enjoying the whole process of unlocking your optimism power, you'll realize that you're beginning to take things light and become happy.