Is your client’s glass half empty or half full? Optimism has little to do with circumstances and luck and more to do with choices, problem solving and explanatory styles. Long-term pessimism can lead to depression and learned helplessness. But, the goal is not to try and be “happy” all the time. Realistic optimism presents a narrative that includes adversity and challenges in addition to life satisfaction. Learn practical strategies to replace negative thinking with a more positive (and accurate) view.
Objectives:
1) Determine controllable factors to set reasonable expectations.
2) Demonstrate optimistic and pessimistic explanatory styles.
3) Integrate problem-solving strategies to improve client engagement.