Optimism is like magic – it has the power to make the impossible a reality because it gives folks to courage and motivation to try. If there is one thing we believe everyone should guard with their life, it’s their optimism and so we asked some of the most optimistic folks we know to talk to us about how they developed their optimism.

Benjy Bradshaw

My optimism has been with me since a very young age. Growing up, my parents encouraged me to live in my truth and enjoy every aspect of life. We found laughter in the little things and my parents insisted that my siblings and I find time to run free in our creativity. Read More>>

Amy Williamson

First and foremost, I get my optimism from God. Moving to Beijing, China, halfway through my junior year of high school showed me that I’m capable of overcoming any challenge. Additionally, I’ve navigated several difficult life events—becoming a single mom, earning my bachelor’s degree in my 40s, and completing my master’s degree in Healthcare Administration. These experiences have taught me resilience and strengthened my faith. Read More>>

Rosie Mitchell

Remaining optimistic can sometimes be a struggle for most people in the world we live in and especially when you’ve got a mental illness. I was diagnosed many years ago with Bipolar disorder. Mental health is a spectrum and lots of people are out there struggling to mask. The world needs more people with a mental health problem to be visible through poetry and all art forms. Optimism is sometimes illusive nevertheless, I chase it. Read More>>

Sangita Ganesan

Optimism likely stems from innate ability to see beauty and potential in every situation, As an Event designer I transform spaces into something magical which reflects my belief with effort and creativity. Anything can be improved or made extraordinary. This mindset, combined with the joy that i bring to others, reinforces a positive outlook on life. Read More>>

Mia Bosna

Several factors contribute to my optimism. It begins with honoring my ancestors. As teenagers, they crossed an ocean to start a new life in a foreign country, with their sample book of crotcheted lace, the promise of fine Italian tailoring, and a basic understanding of the English vocabulary. These seeds of hope and resilience grew into an amazing family tree, from which I now enjoy the fruits of their labor and share their optimism for exploration as an artist.  Read More>>

Islam Gimazov

Optimism is an insanely important quality in the film industry because, frankly, we always need to leave a good impression as professionals. I don’t like giving up on ideas, even the craziest ones, whether finding a crazy angle for light to reflect or building flat walls on our own. I always welcome storms with a smile on my face and that I believe is my driving force. Read More>>

Arty Furtado

I believe I am a pretty positive person, which helps with being optimistic about most things. I am always searching for ways to get things done, as opposed to looking at why things may not work. I love trying to find solutions to apparent problems. Read More>>

Kareema Bee

My optimism comes from the belief that in the unknown, there is something special and divine that has been beautifully handcrafted by God for me to discover. Every day that I wake up is a chance to start over. Every hour is an opportunity to decide to do something different. Every minute is a gift to be present. That’s what gives me optimism.  Read More>>

Ashley Martinez

I would say my optimism comes from my family that most likely started from my grandfather and later from my best friend. They both had challenging health issues growing up but no matter what, they always found the silver lining at the end of the day and kept going and never let their illnesses define them, if anything it made them stronger and want to defeat the odds. I always carried that with me and admired that. Read More>>

Betsy Carver

I have always believed in the power of optimism and the profound impact a positive outlook can have on both my personal and professional life. Stepping into the role of Executive Director at River Discovery has truly put that optimism to the test. Working in the realm of cancer support and survivorship presents daily challenges, as it is an emotionally complex and deeply personal journey for so many. Read More>>

Noy Finer

Whenever I feel lost, my mom always tells me to take things into perspective. Sometimes life’s challenges can seem scary or overwhelming, to the point where it feels impossible to find a way out. And yes, it’s totally okay to freak out for a moment. Read More>>

Juro Kusnir

One way or another, everything will pass. And we all have more power than we think to make things better for ourselves and others. Also, I believe you achieve more with positive mindset. If you’re doing something and don’t believe it’s going to turn out well, how do you expect others to believe it? And how are you enjoying anything? If it’s raining outside, you can enjoy it or complain about it. It’s going to rain either way, but it’s way nicer to enjoy it. Read More>>

Preston Barney

I believe my optimism comes from God. It comes from God and is strengthened by God. We all have a natural proclivity to certain things; I have been blessed to be born not just looking at the glass half full, but honestly believing my cup can run over. I’m hard wired for optimism, but you can’t just have it, you have to keep it, and grow it.  Read More>>

Mario Layne Fabrizio

Wow what a question, hahah. I suppose that I am optimistic because I truly believe things will work out for the best in the end. Also, Japanese Anime has completely affirmed a lot of my thinking in life which thereby, changed my life. The characters, often the main characters, are ones who have a mission, a way, a path, and they will not allow anything to get in front of their optimism and their dream. I love this – it has always been part of my mindset since very young. Read More>>

Monteque Pope-le Beau

My optimism is rooted in my faith in humanity. Traveling around the globe has provided me with valuable insights into diverse cultures. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to explore beyond their borders, as it fosters a deeper appreciation for humanity. It’s fundamentally about compassion, empathy, and grasping the experiences of others.  Read More>>

Dr. Jayson Milner

My optimism comes from my grandmother Lina, whose strength and resilience left an indelible mark on my life. Despite her physical disabilities, she embraced life with positivity and optimism. She kept two signs by her bed—“Think Positive” and “Be Patient”—simple yet powerful reminders that continue to guide me today. Read More>>

Evelyn Hernandez

I think the best question I found here was this one because optimism is something that I put out to everyone I encounter and it seems like people always say that I am always in a good mood and glowing energy to put a smile on people. I definitely would call this optimistic energy and I do think that putting out this kind of energy to the world will help create more smiles all around and a better environment.  Read More>>

Sarah Mares

Optimism is something that is born out of necessity, not logic. I’d say my optimism comes from a deep place of resilience, purpose, and connection. Most of us have overcome personal struggles, complicated family dynamics, and some sort of health challenges, and for me all of these obstacles are just reminders of the importance of healing for myself, others, and the planet. Here are a few key points that fuel my optimism: Read More>>

Danyelle Aguirre

My optimism comes from my life experiences and the unwavering belief that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. As a divorced single mother who took a leap of faith to start over and build a business from the ground up, I’ve learned that resilience is key. No matter how uncertain things seemed, I always found a way forward, and that has reinforced my faith in the journey. Read More>>

 Mohamed Diomande

My optimism stems from my outlook on life, which is shaped by a few core beliefs and sayings that guide me:

“Life is long.” I see life as a long journey full of possibilities. This helps me maintain a hopeful, optimistic view of the future rather than getting anxious or discouraged by temporary setbacks. I know there is plenty of time for good things to happen. Read More>>

Alex Pham

I learnt to keep faith and optimism with various members of my family and friends. Year after year, it might be something that I cultivated and learnt to grow by myself. Read More>>

Michael Craft

I feel that being an artist or photographer has no time limit—creativity is a lifelong journey. This realization brings optimism, knowing that I have the potential to create meaningful, attention-worthy work exists at any stage. Seeing fellow artists produce their best work inspires my confidence, reinforcing the belief that with focus and dedication, the ideas in my mind can become reality. Read More>>

Erwick D’souza

I get my optimism from my father. He climbed the socio-economic ladder and went from being a worker to running a company within a few decades. Through him, I realized that I am truly capable of anything. When I was in engineering school for my undergrad program, I realized that engineering was not what I wanted. I wanted to tell stories and I wanted to make things. I created a mechanism of self-discovery and innovation within myself.  Read More>>

Chelsea Marcantel

There’s a quote from Michael J. Fox that I love: “With gratitude, optimism is sustainable.” I think it’s important to keep track of an hold in your heart all things you have going for you, all the people who are on your side, all the things that are working in your favor. The obstacles will keep presenting themselves, the trouble will find you. You have to hold on to the things that are working to your advantage, and give thanks for them.  Read More>>

 Spencer Pepke

I was a really angry, lonely kid. I felt like the world I was discovering was both dumb and bad. I could always find art to connect to- art made by other angry, lonely people. There’s a definite strength in sharing those feelings, and from being real about the pain that comes from the world we live in, but I let them stew. That anger defined my scope of the world, and also of myself. Read More>>

Kinston Smith

For me, optimism is tied to inspiration. Looking at the many people who inspire me strengthens my belief that it’s possible for me to achieve my dreams even when it gets hard. Reflecting on the many obstacles they have overcome gives me hope that I will be successful no matter what obstacles come my way. Read More>>

Bailey Tans

My optimism comes from a deep belief in purpose, beauty, and connection. First and foremost, my faith in God keeps me grounded in hope—trusting that every challenge carries growth and every season has meaning. My sons are also a constant source of inspiration. Seeing the world through their eyes reminds me to embrace wonder, joy, and the simple moments that make life extraordinary. Read More>>

John Robinson

My optimism comes from the belief that hip-hop is one of the most powerful tools for change we have. I’ve seen it transform lives—mine included. When I was a kid in Queens, hip-hop gave me a voice. It taught me how to express myself, how to turn my struggles into art, and how to connect with people on a deeper level. That power doesn’t fade; it grows. Read More>>