Optimism is a boon to most any relationship

Studies suggest that sprinkling optimism into any relationship -- whether it's your marriage or your relationship with your overbearing boss -- makes for a much happier one.

When people are optimistic, they tend to work harder to solve problems and maintain a sunnier mood. This in turn, leads to fewer arguments and less conflict overall. Studies have also shown that when you're optimistic around others, it not only makes you appear friendlier and more resilient, but it has a "rubbing off" effect -- others themselves become more optimistic when in your presence.

We've heard the expression "spread the cheer." Maybe we ought to be saying "spread the optimism"!

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