The restorative power of positive thinking: How optimism improves wellbeing and health

Prior to having to reevaluate his thoughts after three hospital visits in a single month, Prince Bhojwani had never considered himself to be a negative person. Prior to May 2018, he was a fit but always anxious start-up founder who frequently rode his bike 20 miles (32 kilometers). Doctors in the emergency room suspected a stroke when he suddenly became hardly able to walk, had hazy vision, and had elevated blood pressure, but they were unable to determine what was causing his condition.

However, a close friend who he described as "one of the most optimistic people I know" brought up the fact that Bhojwani frequently lacked faith in the outcome and argued that this was what ultimately caused him to burn out.

"I literally started looking at the world very differently the next day," New York City resident Bhojwani remarked. He began to practice meditation and to express gratitude for his life each morning. He also discovered meaning in his co-founding of the South Asian advocacy group Asana Voices, a nonprofit.

Despite working more hours, he hasn't experienced any similar health difficulties in the years since. He attributes it to his improved outlook. He said, "It kind of forced me to become optimistic after there was a life-changing event." "It's unimaginable to live life the way I did in the past."