None of us perceives the world in a completely accurate way. Data is filtered and distorted. We tell ourselves irrational and inaccurate stories, and then behave as if our stories were true. Both negative and positive thinkers distort reality, albeit in different directions, but it seems that the positive distortions of healthy thinkers are most often beneficial. Optimism leads to hopefulness, not helplessness.
Negativism greatly limits the potential for creative action.
Assessing Your Distortions . You may find the following checklist useful in helping you look objectively at the direction of your thinking. You do have editorial privilege on your stories. When you find that you're operating from a distorted pessimistic story or thought, use the checklist to find out why, and then revise your story to reflect a more positive outlook. It may be difficult to pin down the real source.