saintfan

What causes my pessimism and negativity?
I have a tendency toward pessimism and negativity because I:

experienced a major tragedy or loss in my past and I haven't fully grieved and accepted the loss.

have a permanent disability that prevents me from experiencing life to the fullest.

have experienced a series of failures in school, work, family, life, or relationships that have convinced me that I am a failure.

was ignored and still am ignored by my family of origin; I am convinced that I have to fight everyone to get my opinion heard.

feel guilt over a past sin or mistake I made; this guilt blinds me from seeing hope, the promise of redemption, or forgiveness.

would rather attend a `"self-pity party'' than eat at life's banquet.

don't want to change my thinking, feeling, and actions.

am stubborn and don't want to accept help when others point out optimistic or positive ways of looking at life.

am lazy and realize that to change will take too much work, energy, and effort.

like to be the center of attention. My current behavior draws a lot of attention to me, even if it is negative.

refuse to consider that I might be wrong by taking on my "causes.''

consider those I come in contact with as stupid, ignorant, or irrational and believe my way is the only way to be.

have never experienced happiness, joy, or contentment; it's impossible for me to attain.

have never felt approval or recognition from the significant people in my life.

am constantly reminded of my faults, shortcomings, failures, and lack of successes.

give others power over me to keep me feeling badly about myself, my life, and the future.

don't take steps to improve my self-esteem and self-worth.

constantly give myself negative self-talk and negative visual imagery.

Much more potentially helpful info at the following link:
http://www.coping.org/anger/pessimis.htm