Research has consistently linked optimism and overall health and longevity. Optimistic thinkers have lower rates of hypertension, heart disease, and even risk of cancer, as well as lower rates of mortality in general. These health factors may be influenced by optimists’ focus on taking care of themselves. Optimists tend to exercise more, sleep better, eat healthier, and refrain from smoking (but it's not certain whether optimism drives these behaviors, or vice versa).