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Optimism
E. Carol Webster, Ph.D.
Copyright © 2008
Life can be a bummer. Stuff happens. But the people who understand that
downers are just a part of life and who push forward in spite of them
are those who tend to excel. Optimists actively deal with problems at
hand and remain confident that the future will bring better days. While
it helps to have been raised in an atmosphere that fosters confidence
and hope, you can learn to have a positive outlook on life so -- as the
saying goes -- start viewing “the glass as half-full rather than
half-empty”.
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Adjust
Your Attitude |
Rather than be crushed by adversity, learn to view negative experiences as
part of the complexity of life. Don’t let problems and disappointments
dominate your thinking. And stop complaining. It feeds on itself and causes
you to gravitate towards those who are whining and drowning in hopelessness.
Accept the reality of the challenges that you face because, for now, they
are what they are.
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Double
Your Efforts to Succeed |
Success comes to those who make it happen. You must take action to
counter adversity and to obtain more positive outcomes in the future. It’s
not enough to sit around hoping that things will turn out okay. You have to
do something. But understand that you will probably have to do more –
and for longer -- than usual. Sometimes extraordinary measures are necessary
and your efforts may be required for extended periods of time. Optimists
don’t dwell on this. They understand that sustained effort is called for in
these circumstances and are propelled by their hopes for the future and
confidence in their ability to succeed at the things they do.
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Modify
Goals as Realities Change |
Optimistic thinking does not mean always finding a “silver lining” and
rationalizing that things will turn out great when odds are, they won’t. The
future must be anticipated in light of realities now. Find
alternative paths to the success you seek when your current path is going
nowhere. A new direction is not necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes the goals
we’ve set need modification and life’s challenges help us to realize that
it’s time for change. Don’t run from this. Embrace it. There are many
exciting new opportunities and experiences out there for you.
Your attitude towards life has a lot to do with how things turn out for
you. And you’re never too old to learn. Don’t fall prey to defeat and
negative thinking when adversity strikes. Give yourself a healthy dose of
optimism and start viewing your life through a more positive lens. You’ll
enjoy the view --- and will feel the difference!
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