Actually, the latest research suggests that some forms of pessimism may have benefits. Pessimism isn’t just about negative thinking. Research has shown that this way of thinking can not only help them succeed, but also bring some rather unexpected rewards.

: a person who is inclined to expect poor outcomes : someone who is given to pessimism …

How to Stop Being Pessimistic: 10 Positive Thinking Tips

1. Start replacing the negativity in your surroundings and life.
2. When you’re in what looks like a negative situation, find what’s good or helpful about it.
3. Work out regularly.
4. Stop making mountains out of a molehill.
5. Be grateful for a few of the things you may often take for granted.

When You’re Dating (or Married to) a Pessimist…

1. Recognize how you complement each other. “Most couples have one person who is a spender and one who is the saver.
2. Understand your partner’s values.
3. End the “I’ve got it worse” game.
4. Break the negativity habit.
5. Be a positive role model.
6. Start a conversation instead of a fight.
7. Protect your own positivity.

Ask the pessimist to explain why they think something or ask for alternative solutions. Follow negative statements with “but” to pivot to the positive. Involve the whole team. Set some norms about conversation and positive behavior and model for the pessimist–social pressure works!

6 Tips to Help your Negative Child

1. Stop complaining yourself. Often children who think negatively have parents who think negatively.
2. Help your child change the filter.
3. Develop an attitude of gratitude.
4. ‘Reality checking’ thoughts.
5. Empathise and help them understand their emotions.
6. Help them solve their own problems.

There can be many reasons for a negative or pessimistic attitude, and they may appear alongside symptoms of depression or anxiety. For the latter, being negative about a process or situation may be a sort of defence mechanism; a way of ‘preparing for the worst’.