The Season for Optimism

Optimism

What it really is, why we need it, and how to keep it.

For every person struggling with a tough problem, for every member of an underrepresented group trying to be heard, and for every leader working to make necessary changes, "perpetual optimism is a force multiplier" to quote the late former Secretary of State General Colin Powell. Powell had 13 rules for leadership and perpetual optimism was lucky number 13. So whatever you do, if you also have optimism- you'll do better and go farther.

So what exactly is optimism? Let me say this - it's not "toxic positivity" or pretending everything is fine, or ignoring difficult issues. There is such a thing as too much optimism - or the optimism bias which blinds us to real risks. The optimism bias is a negative because "We tend to overestimate the likelihood that good things will happen to us and underestimate the likelihood of bad things. Scientists call this optimism bias, and it’s one of our most pervasive cognitive illusions."

Generally however, optimism is a positive. According to the website Teen's Health (which you can read in English or Spanish), "Optimism lets us see disappointing events as temporary situations that we can get past. It strengthens us to try again rather than give up. It allows us to keep our goals and dreams in play so we can act on the motivation to keep working toward them." I selected this source because teens are still building their worldview, and when we think of ourselves as lifelong learners, that growth mindset view of ourselves as a still developing person is useful. Staying optimistic can be challenging at times, this 2020 NYT article How to Stay Optimistic When Everything Seems Wrong, tells us "Optimism isn’t about ignoring negative feelings. It’s about being hopeful about the future, even when the present seems wholly negative." The article has good advice and tips for when you are just not feeling it!

Optimism is good for your health and longevity and good for your career.

Spring in NY is a great time to be optimistic! Enjoy the greening/flowering world.

All the best,
Holly