Changing one's perspectives of a situation does wonder. This is not by being naively optimistic but really objective looking at the situation as a whole.
As a whole, yes.. as a whole.. When things happen, tendency is to conclude whatever has happened instinctively basing on emotion, first impression or the surface observations. But many other hidden implications or blind spots tend to be left undiscovered.
Something seemingly bad happens, the verdict immediately given is that it is bad, depressing and the green light is given to go ahead and be depressed or react to it.
In Philippians 1:12-14, we see Paul in chains in prison for doing God's work. Easily, he can complain, he can be angry with God or people, he can lament etc... But he saw it in another light. " 12Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 13As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard[b] and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly."
As a result, he was able to respond with a different attitude and positive way objectively despite being in prison, in chains, away from loves one, uncertainty and discomfort.
Of course, there are more to say about Paul's time in prison, but today i will just dwell on the perspective part.
