Thinking positively can have a large range of benefits for your mental, emotional and physical health. Let's take a look at some of the reasons why you want to stay positive when life is throwing you a period of adversity.

1) Lower Your Stress Level

Happy people don't spend most of their time stressing out. This allows you to concentrate on enjoying what you do have as opposed to what you don't have. Make sure not to sweat the small things, along with situations that are simply out of your hands.

2) You Smile More Often

Smiling is attractive. It shows that you are an optimistic person that others want to be around. Your happiness can inspire others to gain strength during adversity as well. A person who regularly smiles proudly appears much more approachable over someone wearing a frown.

3) Decrease the Chances of Suffering from Depression

Positive thoughts stave off many of the symptoms of depression. It is a lot easier to get up in the morning when you feel like you have many things to accomplish. Maintaining a positive outlook throughout the day will help you feel ready to take on obstacle that comes your way.

4) Benefit from Increased Motivation

When you think you can do something, you are going to be more motivated to do it. Your positive thoughts and actions tend to turn into great results. Staying motivated will not only encourage you to work harder but inspire others around you.

5) Increased Energy

Those who stay active regularly benefit from sustained energy throughout the day. Having a zest for life allows you to keep going under trying circumstances. To keep the positivity consistent, simply think about the things or people that make you happy: your children, pet, significant other, etc.

6) Solve Your Problems Rationally

Those who think positively usually do everything in their power to overcome a problem. Your high-level of determination should promote quick and effective strategies to overcome a pressing matter.

7) Boosted Immune System

Your immune system can actually be more efficient in fighting illnesses as opposed to those who are depressed or constantly thinking negatively.

8) Stay Focused

Thinking positive doesn't mean that you aren't also realistic. Scientific research has shown that those who hope for the best even when they should expect the worst deal with either occurrence much better than most others.

9) Improve Self-Esteem

Believing that you are good enough is half the battle, whenever you are trying to accomplish something. Those who think happy thoughts tend to think positively about themselves as well. Low self-esteem can affect your personal relationships, career and daily tasks.

10) Improve Relationships with Friends, Family And Colleagues

Angry, depressed and bitter people push others out of their lives for no reason. On the other hand, those individuals who see the good in others cultivate relationships that can withstand the ups and downs of life.

There is no doubt that it is difficult to think positively at all times. Daily events in our lives can make it difficult to stay focused on what we want to be or what we need to do to improve areas of our life. However, those who have the foresight to see the light at the end of the tunnel as opposed to the thunderstorm will persevere and live the life that they desire.

For additional information on staying on track and motivated, refer to Chapter 8 of MS Living Symptom Free by Daryl H. Bryant.