Remember the story of the little train going up a big hill. It kept saying, "I think I can, I think I can," and it did.
Psychologists at Olin College of Engineering in Needham, Mass., say we all create narratives and valuations of ourselves. The way we construct these stories has a large impact on us. It's much more complicated than simply "look on the bright side of life."
Individuals who view themselves, their capabilities and attitudes in positive ways can create self-fulfilling stories. For example, when they construct a work story that includes enthusiasm, dedication and good work, they are likely to have these qualities. Or they are more likely to develop them.
Having a positive life story counts. In one study, researchers asked adults to tell their life stories, then recorded and transcribed them. They looked for four features.
* Subjects felt they were able to influence and respond to events in life.
* They felt connected to others, such as friends and co-workers.
* They told of good things going bad.
* They took a negative experience and found some positive outcome.
Those whose stories had higher levels of influence, connection and the ability to find good in bad experiences had higher levels of life and work satisfaction.
You tell your own story and have a choice in how the story plays out. Understand that you can change your story whenever you want.
When you include more good spin stories, you'll be able to add more of them in the future. Respect yourself.
