The book states that “many people believe happiness leads to good health because, observably, the two often appear hand in hand.” Even though there is a direct correlation between happiness and good health, there are confounding variables that are making people both happier and healthier. In class, we have discussed many examples of what individuals should to do maintain and improve their health, whether its engaging in preventative measures, regular exercise, adequate sleep, etc. I started to wonder if these factors could be examples of the missing piece between the happiness and health correlation.
I also thought it was interesting when the author said that “the main impact of optimism on health is that it encourages health-promoting behaviors.” I know from experience through a family member, that optimism and self efficacy plays a huge role when dealing with health issues, specifically a chronic condition. Again, having the right amount of optimism, neither too low or too high, is ideal.
One random sidenote about this book, I have realized that I enjoy the book and learn more when I read the entire chapter at once, and then sit down to write my response, instead of typing up notes/responses while reading the chapter!