November 24, 2021 – As a noun, an optimist is a person who expects favorable outcomes. They are hopeful and confident about their future success. They see the glass as half full.
As an adjective, optimal is the best, most favorable, or desirable outcome given a set of circumstances. We should all strive for our optimal life.
There is a clear reason why optimistic people often live a more optimal life. Why? Because people with an optimistic outlook will most likely enjoy better health and more wealth!
Optimists know more about their health and about how to be healthy. They tend to be more inquisitive and educate themselves on how to treat conditions they have, as well as the risks that lead to poor health. They engage in better behaviors. They are less likely to smoke and typically drink in moderation. They sleep better and tend to eat healthier diets.
Optimistic people use more effective methods to cope with setbacks. Feeling positive allows for the focus to remain on getting better, structured in a care plan that emphasizes improvement, not on managing emotions such as fear or sadness. And let’s face it, optimists have a more extensive social network to achieve mental and physical support. People like to be surrounded by upbeat, positive people rather than pessimists who act like “Debbie Downers.”
Being an optimist can have a significant impact on your money. Optimists have approximately one-half the number of financial setbacks, when compared to pessimists. They experience 145 fewer days of economic stress per year than those who feel the glass is “half empty,” and the “half full” crowd is 7 times more likely to experience financial health.
There are three simple habits you can adopt to unlock the power of optimism and move closer to that optimal life:
Take the Taboo Out of Money
Many of us experience anxiety, shame, or embarrassment when we must talk about money. Many of our clients initially hold back information to avoid judgment on their past habits with money. Money is a touchy subject for many, and the money taboo keeps people from finding money’s proper place in their lives. These feelings are stronger among those who might have had bad experiences with money and are uncomfortable reliving those experiences.
Optimists are comfortable talking about their money. They might have fears or concerns, but they are more likely to discuss issues with spouses, partners, and family members to gain a different perspective. They are more likely to work with an advisor and educate themselves about issues they may face. They face, and can overcome, their emotions, like fear, uncertainty, and sadness.
Seek Progress, Not Perfection
Optimistic people believe they will achieve their goal and know how to celebrate regardless of how small the accomplishment is. They realize they are not perfect and don’t try to be. Reasonable is an OK standard, and progress is what they seek to achieve every day. On the other hand, pessimists will find fault in every outcome that falls even a bit short. They find it challenging to tolerate mistakes.
Optimists don’t blindly think everything will be great. They do feel that the odds for success are in their favor and over time they will come out in a better place more times than not.
Optimists rarely get overwhelmed. They can break down a goal into bite-size, manageable pieces. They get some quick wins which give them the confidence to move forward.
So why are there so many pessimists in the country? Simply put, it’s easier to be a pessimist. You don’t have to think on your own, but rather dismiss other people’s thinking. Pessimism also makes you sound more intelligent. Telling people of doomsday scenarios, market crashes, cataclysmic natural disasters, and what is wrong with society can be attractive in a social setting. Look at the usual news headlines; all meant to grab your undivided attention. Good news eventually shows up, but bad news travels fast! Fight the urge. Be positive.
Expect the Unexpected
Of course, I am a big proponent of financial planning. Setting the “goalposts” and developing an action plan to achieve your goals is essential to your success. However, during your path in life, you must realize that, eventually, you will need to plan for inevitable changes. Change is the only constant in life!
Optimists think of these setbacks as learning opportunities. Learning from your past prepares you for the future. This ability to cope with change provides a unique sense of security and calm as you become less fearful and turn your emotional energy towards productive actions.
Optimists accept the reality of changing their minds. When you think that things can get better, they often will! Optimists are adaptable, and while change can be difficult at times, it becomes bearable when you are able to see the “light at the end of the tunnel.”
Conclusion
If you practice gratitude, see the best in people, and believe the future will be bright – congratulations, you are well suited to weather any setbacks in your life. If pessimism guides your thinking, you constantly worry about the future, and you find it difficult to cope with inevitable change, don’t give up! Optimism is a learned behavior.
If becoming more optimistic sounds interesting to you, consider reading the book “Learned Optimism – How to Change Your Mind and Your Life” by Martin E.P. Seligman, Ph.D. For the visual learner, here is a link to a four-minute animation on the topic. https://positivepsychology.com/learned-optimism/
Good Luck – Stay Positive – Enjoy Your Life