Eager to enjoy the good life? Be optimistic.
By Jean Ricot Dormeus
Often we create our reality. A class hardly performs beyond the expectations of the teacher. We treat our family members according to the way we perceive them. And the quality of our relationships with our colleagues depends on how we interpret their attitude toward us.
In this context, when we cultivate optimism, we exhale positive energy. We show patience as we seek to understand issues. We foster unity and encourage people to come together to find solutions to their problems. Optimism derives from the hope that we will someday reach the goals we are pursuing. Therefore, we focus on what we want, and what works.
Pessimism feeds on doubt and the belief that we don’t measure up. So the bleak reality trumps it all and generates a sense of resignation, despair and defeatism. In a culture of pessimism, people focus on what they don’t want and what is bad. They wallow in mediocrity because they don’t believe in themselves and others around them. Therefore, pessimism brings or reflects decline or stagnation, complaints, and conflicts.
Regardless of our natural inclination, we must deliberately embrace optimism to stand a chance to live a fulfilling life. We must keep believing that the best is yet to come, that our interlocutor harbors good faith, that we have the potential to overcome any situation. The benefits of this attitude redounds on our families, our communities and nations.
Once we choose to make optimism second nature, we will expose ourselves to what is constructive, endeavoring to read, watch and listen to the things that help us improve on our lives.
To enjoy the good life, let’s believe that we can and will experience lasting happiness and success. Let’s be optimistic.
Jean Ricot Dormeus
Check out my book “Land of Dormant Dreams – A Walk into the Future” for more tips on developing self and nation.