New research from North Carolina State University revealed that cultivating hopefulness may be more beneficial than mindfulness during periods of extreme stress.

The study, led by Kristin Scott and published in Stress and Health, examined how hope versus mindfulness impacted work-related resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The study involved 247 participants and utilized a multiwave statistical model to assess the effects of hope and mindfulness on work engagement and psychological well-being.

Researchers discovered that a future-oriented mindset, characterized by hopefulness, significantly boosted resilience and motivation compared to mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs).

“Hope was linked to greater happiness and less distress, leading to better engagement at work,” said Scott. “In contrast, mindfulness did not show the same connection to happiness.”

The researchers suggest that while mindfulness has its benefits, hopefulness is particularly effective for overcoming prolonged periods of stress.

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ource: Oman News Agency