2 - Optimism
- Steve Carle
- Sep 9
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 26
Today's challenge;
Make as few negative comments or complaints as possible today.
Optimism is a mental attitude rooted in the belief—or hope—that the outcome of a specific endeavor, or life in general, will be positive, favorable, and desirable.
Why is it important?
Research shows that optimism can:
Strengthen the immune system
Help prevent chronic diseases
Improve coping skills when facing difficult news or adversity
Gratitude, which we’ll explore later, is closely linked to optimism. Grateful individuals tend to be happier, receive more social support, experience less stress, and are less likely to suffer from depression.
Recent studies also reveal that optimists and pessimists approach problems differently, which affects how well they cope with adversity.
Optimism, Hope, and Resilience: A Powerful Trio
Optimism is the foundation for two key concepts that will appear throughout this journey: hope and resilience. Together, they form a dynamic trio:
Optimism fuels a positive outlook.
Hope provides the roadmap and motivation to take action.
Resilience ensures persistence, growth, and the ability to bounce back from setbacks.
These three work in harmony—like a tag team—to help you move forward with strength and purpose. You’ll learn how to harness and direct the energy they offer. And if you don’t feel them yet, don’t worry—they’ll find you.
How can you improve your optimism?
Celebrate Your Successes
We often acknowledge others’ achievements but downplay our own. To build a more positive self-image, regularly remind yourself of what you’ve accomplished—and what you’re capable of achieving.
Focus on Solutions, Not Problems
Pessimists dwell on problems; optimists seek solutions. While it’s natural to feel disappointed or frustrated, ruminating won’t change the situation. Let go of regrets and negative thoughts, and start planning your next steps.
Practice Gratitude
We tend to take things for granted—especially when life is going smoothly. Be thankful for your family, friends, basic needs, and the opportunities available to you. Focus on what you have, not what you lack. Good things gravitate toward grateful people.
Be Mindful of What You Consume
Doomscrolling, spending time around negative people, worrying about things beyond your control, and neglecting self-care all make optimism harder to maintain. Shift your focus and energy toward uplifting, constructive influences—and your life will begin to change.
Deep Dive
Martin Seligman is widely regarded as the founder of the positive psychology movement. This study of optimism is based on decades of research and offers tools to reframe negative thinking.
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.“ – Sir Winston Churchill
Checkpoint: Something to consider today...
Does optimism make you a better leader?
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