Westport Middle School Advisory Lesson Positive Mindset Westport Middle School Advisory Lesson

What the Research Says… Cognitive Studies have shown that learning is connected with a positive mindset. When you are happy, the information you learn gets stored in long-term memories. Learning that takes place in conditions that cause stress and anxiety is only stored in short-term memory. (Pawlak, et. al., 2003; Shadmehr & Holocomb, 1997)

What is Optimism? Optimism is a way of seeing life hopefully and having an expectation of success and well-being. Optimism correlates strongly with good health. We must practice optimism so that it can become a way of thinking.

Activity Optimism doesn’t mean pretending that everything is great when it is not. On the graphic organizer, write down responses for each situation that would be optimistic, unrealistic, and pessimistic. Look at the examples for ideas. Be ready to share some of your responses.

Discuss What do pessimistic and unrealistic thinking have in common? Which kind of thinking is most likely to lead to action? Which kind of thinking is most likely to see the world as all good or all bad? Which kind of thinking gives you the most control over the situation?

Advice Column Read the letters from teens asking for advice about different issues. Then answer the questions and respond to the advice-seekers. Be ready to discuss with the class.

Reflect Independently, complete the Optimistic/Pessimistic/Unrealistic Thoughts worksheet. Think of a problem you have experienced or are currently experiencing and fill in the thought bubbles with different reactions you could have. Can you choose the optimistic reaction?