Do you typically make lemonade out of lemons? If so, you have a better chance of surviving heart disease than your fatalistic friends, according to a recent study. Adding to evidence that emotions affect heart health, the study of 866 adults with heart disease showed that those with positive attitude were 20 percent more likely live longer than those with a pessimistic outlook.

This study shows the relationship between positive emotions and longevity, says lead researcher Beverly Brummett, PhD, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Duke University Medical Centre. But don’t worry if you don’t possess a positive perspective. Adopting the habits of joyful folks and surrounding yourself with friends and family, can increase your chances of developing a healthier attitude.