Optimist Or Pessimist.

The vast majority of us associate optimism with that familiar image of a glass of liquid either half-full or half-empty, depending on how we view our lives.

In theory, someone who sees the glass as half-full is an optimist.

When you are optimistic, you expect things to go well, and you dwell on the most hopeful aspects of a situation.

A pessimist, on the other hand, sees the glass as half-empty.

When you are pessimistic, you expect thing to go poorly.

You see the downside of most things and dwell on what might go wrong.

Optimistic people look at their futures with anticipation and eagerness, whereas pessimistic people tend to look at their futures with hopelessness and negativity.

I have learned that things generally go according to how you expect them to go.

Being optimistic is not only a vital part of our personalities, it is also an essential component influencing the outcomes of every part of our lives from our relationships to our careers.

But we must keep a balance between being optimistic and realistic.

While I consider myself to be optimistic, I do not have blind optimism.

As an example, I look at things honestly using my years of experience.

If I see something wrong or I see a potential challenge, I don’t ignore the possible pitfalls because I want to be optimistic.

If you go through life with blind optimism, you will be so disappointed that eventually you will become pessimistic.

Benefits of Being Optimistic

“Optimism is essential to achievement and it is also the foundation of courage and true progress.”

“Optimism is the one quality more associated with success and happiness than any other.”

Renowned experts like Martin E. Seligman, Ph.D.

who works on positive psychology, learned helplessness, depression, optimism and pessimism have spent years studying optimism and conclude that it accomplishes the following:

Prevents depression

Improves health by reducing stress

Enables achievement by combining talent and desire.

Everyone Can Be Optimistic

The great news is that because optimism is a learned behavior, it’s within our control to decide how we choose to see the glass.

Although it’s fascinating research, you don’t need to know how optimism is studied and measured in order to do the things that will help you become more optimistic.

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope or confidence.”

If you want to advance your life personally or professionally, you must

1. Focus on the positives and expect things to go well.

2. Keep an eye on pitfalls that may lie ahead and be prepared for them.

I realize there is a fine line between the two, but the difference is where you place your emphasis.

Think About It !