Change kindles anxiety in most individuals. And real estate agents are no different. Changes in the economy, the culture, the housing market, and personal lives all contribute to the uneasiness agents are feeling. In a post from the archive, Stephanie Vozza shows how to counteract anxiety through optimism. Researchers have long documented that optimistic people are also more successful, enjoy better health, and live longer, more productive lives. But what if you’re not an optimistic person? True, some people are naturally more optimistic, however someone who is negative or pessimistic can control it and improve upon it. Like any healthy habit, optimism is something you need to practice every day. If you’re responsible for recruiting, this is great news. Optimism can be learned, diminishes your own anxiety, and attracts others who want what you have found. So how do you foster optimism? Here are some of the ideas Stephanie outlined: Listen and show interest in others. People often think they’re alone in their struggles, such as divorce, cancer, or financial problems. When they hear about people who’ve experienced the same thing and came out on the sunny side, it can give them hope, and hope is the foundation of optimism. Donate your time and energy. Whether it’s helping at the local soup kitchen or being available to people you know, giving back is a habit optimistic people practice. No matter what you’re going through, be good to others and help when you can. The spirit of altruism can make you feel optimistic about your own life. Surround yourself with upbeat people and ignore naysayers. You’re the sum of the people you spend time with. If you’re with other optimists, it’s easy to absorb that energy and it can be powerful. When you happen to be in the presence of a naysayer, get in the habit of ignoring these individuals. If optimism is your signature strength, recruiting success will follow close behind.