Pragmatic Optimism is the Elixir of Life

If I were able to bottle and pass on to you just one thing in life, I believe it would be what I describe as "Pragmatic Optimism." Scientifically proven through the use of an ASQ (Attributional Style Questionnaire) test, high degrees of optimism illustrate a clear predisposition for greater success in work, education, sports and on health.

Optimism; defined as "a positive and empowering rational attitude toward individual and collective possibilities" is much more than about a positive attitude and feeling good. It is about interpreting and acting upon life events, in a manner as to influence their outcome both favorably and beneficially. It is approaching each life event with the belief that you can control or influence its result by intensifying your focus and comprehension in such a way that leads to triumph, victory and successful accomplishment.

Often criticized as nothing more than a blanket or consistent euphoria, where believing everything will turn out alright, pragmatic optimism is much more. It does not discount reality; ignore warning signs, unpleasant events, people, thoughts or feelings. Pragmatic optimism understands that you will not ever jump the Grand Canyon, run a 4-minute mile or solve world peace, but will allow you to de-emphasize the negative aspects of life by focusing on those portions that bring you happiness and provide beneficial results. Pragmatic optimism will allow you to challenge previously determined limits by bringing rationale, examination, and creative thinking to the issue, while the pessimist will simply lack the drive to search for a solution.

Pragmatic optimism combines a demonstrated degree of self-confidence with a fundamental sense of self-worth, which will allow you to visualize and create the future of your dreams. Not wishful thinking, it allows you to understand the role and responsibilities you must maintain in order to achieve realistic, predetermined goals and standards.