Perspectives on Being an Optimist

We’re often asked if we’ve seen a pattern of success among the many thousands of entrepreneurs and creatives we’ve interviewed over the years and when we say yes, folks naturally ask what it takes to succeed and without a doubt one of the most essential ingredients for success is optimism. Cynics may often be right, but it’s only when an optimist is right that the world changes. Below, you’ll find more discussion around optimism and how to develop and foster it.

Helena Castro

My optimism comes from waking up every day with a deep sense of purpose and belief in the power of positivity. Growing up in Rio de Janeiro, I was surrounded by a culture full of resilience and joy, which shaped how I view life and business. Every morning, I start my day with the intention of making a difference, knowing that the swimwear I collections I carefully choose helps women feel confident and beautiful. Seeing them embrace themselves with pride keeps my optimism alive and fuels my passion to continue empowering them through Carioca Life. Read more>>

Candace Lopez

I feel optimistic about life, honestly, because I understand that things can get really, really difficult. In the past, I think we’ve all experienced circumstances outside of our full control: Economic downturns, war, maybe domestic violence, falling into substance abuse, a partner becomes unhealthy, maybe into depression or anxiety, maybe a family member falls ill, a car breaks down, health issues happen. Sometimes all of these situations happen in a row or they happen at once. All of these common human experiences can become overwhelming if we don’t interact with them or take a look at what’s happening: If we ignore reality, things tend to become worse. Read more>>

Michelle Marakasherry

I definitely get my optimism from my parents, especially my dad. Since I was a little kid my dad was always the “funny guy”. Everywhere he went, he made everyone laugh; his easy-going nature was magnetic, and you couldn’t help but be pulled by that joy. He never got mad a lot, and even when things went south, my dad could always turn any situation light-hearted. My dad had all the jokes and my mom laughed at everything, even things that weren’t objectively funny. She just finds joy in anything (and everything!). So I think my optimism is a byproduct of their ability to see the good in everything, no matter how difficult. Read more>>

Hannah Jackson

As a therapist it’s very important for me to hold onto hope and optimism for my clients until they have the capacity to do this for themselves. I started my private practice in the summer of 2020, during the pandemic where the optimism from the general public was waning. Aside from individuals suffering multiple personal losses, we were also glued to our devices witnessing the losses of others at an overwhelming volume.  Read more>>

Julie Trinh

My optimism comes from my parents, their sacrifices, and the deep rooted urge to fulfill a purpose in the world. I am a first generation Asian American. My parents immigrated from Vietnam after the war. They fled to an unknown country with empty pockets leaving behind their family and everything they knew for a better future. When they came to the United States they added me to the family. With an upbringing like mine, you can’t help but feel lucky to have an opportunity to live and create a life full of intentional meaning. Read more>>

Dallas Anderson

I’m able to stay optimistic through faith. The good thing about getting older in experience. I’ve had some amazing times in my life so far, along with some really low times. When you’re going through the worst you can’t see the outcome, but looking back you see you survived it all. I just continue to have faith that no matter what happens, it’s what’s supposed to happen. Read more>>

Hanna Jaeun

Those who know me are aware that I’m not naturally an optimist. However, I like to think of myself that way. I consider myself a pessimistic optimist: I prepare for the worst but love being pleasantly surprised when things turn out well. I view this as a form of optimism. Although it stems from a fear of rejection, I have learned to use it to my advantage. It keeps me moving forward without dwelling too much on my mistakes, though I still do, and helps me manage my expectations. By continuing to push ahead and experience the highs and lows of my artistic journey, I maintain a balance of realism and hope. Read more>>

Dana Hof

I believe the core of optimism is built at the intersection of one’s faith and expectations. Many believe that optimism is having a sunny disposition, but optimism is simply the belief that it is possible to find a way through any obstacle you face. Sometimes the way through is the peaceful acceptance of what is. Read more>>

Michael “chief” Peterson

I can’t remember who said it, but I remember someone telling me that I have survived 100% of life’s most difficult challenges. That message was a wake-up call for me. I’m certain there are many people that have faced far worse adversities in life but I’ve had my share of significant challenges and in many cases, I didn’t feel like I would make it out of them. To find myself on the upside of depression and thriving in life has been nothing short of a blessing and just the reassurance I needed to remind myself that I will be ok. Life it certainly going to happen and how we handle it determines our character. Read more>>

Reagan Hatch

My optimism comes from the onset of every decision, opportunity, adversity, complication, hiccup, new beginning and end. We all have decisions to make about how we approach life and our outlook on it. Choosing to be optimistic is not always the easy choice. Sometimes it takes a lot of work to make it stick. But I believe if you are optimistic about something, you’ve already won one battle. Read more>>

Rosa Park

As a sound artist and designer, my journey began in an unexpected way— through silence. Growing up in a challenging household and carrying the weight of traumatic childhood memories, I was always in search of a quiet space of my own. That space became the attic in my grandmother’s house, where I found solace in the silence and subtle sounds around me. The rustling of leaves, birds chirping outside, the soft meowing of two little cats, and the distant murmur of my grandmother’s television— these gentle sonic memories became the foundation of my sound work, continuously nourishing my inner growth and strength. Read more>>

Yaheng Li

My optimism as a creative designer and sports fan comes from the joy of creation and the constant flow of possibilities in both worlds. In design, every project is a chance to innovate, solve problems, and bring something new to life, which always keeps me excited about what’s ahead. In sports, watching athletes push themselves and overcome obstacles inspires resilience and perseverance, qualities that I apply to my own challenges. Both fields involve continuous growth, learning, and improvement, which keeps me engaged and optimistic. The collaborative nature of design and sports also fuels this positivity. Working with others toward a common goal brings a sense of shared purpose and energy that drives me forward. Read more>>

Travis Barrett

My optimism comes from my upbringing. My mom is very positive, laughs a lot, enjoys life and has fun. There were certainly difficult times, but she never let me dwell or live in those difficult times for too long. I was definitely allowed to feel the pain/difficulty and go through all of the emotions, it’s just not a place where you want to stay for too long. Read more>>

Santana Khoury

The entertainment industry is already such a vibrant and uplifting environment, which makes it easy to maintain a positive outlook but apart from my love for the entertainment world, I also have a deep passion for understanding and exploring the mind and its potential. Learning about the mind has significantly molded my character and attitude. I firmly believe that the mind is a powerful force, shaping our lives through our thoughts. This understanding motivates me to maintain a positive outlook in all circumstances, finding silver linings even in challenging situations. I trust that we all possess the ability to choose our attitudes and actions, ultimately being in charge of our lives – you just have to believe in yourself. Read more>>

Aaron Conaway

In a general life view? My mom. But creatively? Probably from keeping my goals simple. I enjoy making up stories, no matter the format I’m playing in. When I’m creating, I’m that kid making swords out of sticks who imagines the sidewalk as a path to adventure—it’s just that the yellow bricks are strategically concealed in asphalt. Novels, short stories, comic books, or screenplays it doesn’t matter. Playing is the thing, and when I’m creating solo, I’m my only audience. Eventually, I get around to sharing with you, and while I hope you dig it, I already know that I do, so I’ve won. It’s hard not to be optimistic in that headspace. Read more>>

Albert Lim

I love this question. As I get older, I find it a bit harder to wake up feeling optimistic, especially when I’m constantly bombarded with bad news and click-bait headlines as soon as I check my phone. Whether it’s ongoing wars, natural disasters, or other tragedies happening around the world, it can feel overwhelming at times. But what genuinely gives me hope and optimism is my family/partner and friends. I’ve been incredibly blessed to grow up surrounded by so much love, and I consider myself lucky to have people in my life who accept me for who I am and continue to support me, even during moments when I struggle to like myself. Read more>>

Sean Woolsey

I am an eternally optimistic person, I think I always see the glass always full, it is just half full of air and half full of water. I think it comes from reading the news listening to podcasts, and really knowing and appreciating how blessed of a person I am to live in the US, do what I want everyday, have so many freedoms and make a living doing what I want. I pinch myself a lot and am eternally grateful to God for this life I get to live. Read more>>

Jeaney Garcia

Our optimism comes from a blend of deeply personal experiences and shared passions. For me, Jeaney, optimism has always been a natural part of who I am—it’s my default setting. I find excitement in learning from every experience, and I’ve developed a strong sense of self through resilience, determination, and success. As the oldest sibling, a high-level competitive athlete, an Athletic Administrator, a wife for 30 years and a parent to two boys I’ve continually faced challenges head-on and emerged with a positive outlook, ready to take on what comes next. Read more>>

David Jacobson

The simplest answer I can give is, it comes from my sense of humor. If you can change the way you think, you can change the way you feel and with the help of your sense of humor, you change the way you think by focusing on positive thoughts and decreasing negative ones. When you’re purposely using your sense of humor to see the positive side of life, you’re creating a force shield against all the negative thoughts that may intrude upon you through sources such as news media, social and environmental factors.  Read more>>

Melinda Fouts, Ph, D.

I’ve always been an optimist. The alternative isn’t very appealing to me. We all know the saying, “You can look at a glass half empty or half full.” I have changed it to this, you have a glass and something is in it. When we remove the dualistic mindset of right/wrong, light/dark, then you open up to viewing the world differently. Read more>>

Nicole Loor

It’s been a long and emotional journey, and I want to share how, even though there are many times when I feel unmotivated and lose the excitement for things, I still push myself to do what I know benefits my self-esteem and self-love. Self-discovery has always been at the core of this process. For a long time, I felt like I was living in a bubble, and it wasn’t until 2021 that I began my journey to get to know myself better. I started going to therapy and began to understand my emotions more clearly. I also realized that I am a person with the potential to become a better version of myself, even if I haven’t fully discovered that version yet. Read more>>

Qing Wen

My optimism, paradoxically, grows out of my pessimism. I recognize that every life inevitably ends in death, and this awareness shapes my perspective on both the good and the difficult moments we face. Knowing that challenges are temporary, I find comfort in the fact that they will fade, leaving only the experiences we’ve gathered along the way. What we truly possess is the present, the fleeting moments we live in and the lessons we learn. Read more>>

Andrea Jenkins

Thank you for having me again! Always a pleasure!
My entire life I have been battling different obstacles. People close to me say that I am a “fighter” I don’t give up & I don’t quit.
In my opinion, why should you give up?
Life is a Rollercoaster. Heartbreak. Finding love. Finding love in yourself. Financial hardships. Domestic violence. Raising your kids to be good adults some day.
You have two options: You can give up and coast through life. Read more>>

Simon Seungmin Cheon

I think it comes from trusting the process. I wouldn’t say that I am 100% confident in my playing or abilities but I do know that by slower working at my craft and making connections, it will definitely lead to opportunities. But when things go the way I didn’t expect them to be I always just tell myself that it is all part of the process! Read more>>

Kellie Smalls

My optimism comes from within an through supernatural faith! I have always been a glass half full type. I’m always looking on the bright side, even through disappointments and setbacks. I have learned that most of the time a rejection is God’s protection. As a child, I was told about having faith the size of a mustard seed, and faith without works is dead: I always knew I had to do my part and that the rest would work it’s way out. My grandmother always said, “You’ll make it if you try!” These days, I stay motivated by starting the day with prayer, deep breathing, exercise and affirmations. Staying optimistic and motivated is not easy. Read more>>

Chloe W

My optimism comes from my faith in my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Christianity is a journey allowing you to get to know your Maker, build your relationship with Him and to learn what He would do in your time of trouble – in other words, it helps you to become Christlike. Without my faith, I don’t think I would come this far with CWDesigns Studio. Read more>>

Courtney Robinson

My optimism is deeply rooted in my faith and the understanding that I am never alone in my endeavors. I firmly believe that everything I do is not by my own strength but by the grace of God. This belief anchors me and shapes my perspective, allowing me to approach challenges and opportunities with a sense of confidence and hope. Read more>>

Jewels De Hoyos

Much of my optimism comes from challenging the limitations we’ve been conditioned to accept as normal. I take great joy in continuously redefining myself and my life in every possible way. I like to imagine life as a sitcom where each of us get to play the main character in our own life. My partner is also a significant source of inspiration, consistently encouraging me to practice optimism in all situations. Read more>>

Anna Rambo

There is no one way to fully answer this question. The short answer: I love what I do and I’m passionate about finding ways to better myself a little bit each day both personally and professionally. Each day is an opportunity to gain a new skill, grab coffee with a friend, learn something about the world, adventure to an unfamiliar place, or read a bit of advice to help you on your journey. I feel like my optimism comes from my ability to view my time as an invitation for exciting things to happen. Read more>>

My optimism comes from a combination of experiences and mindset. Over the years, I’ve learned that challenges and setbacks are an inevitable part of both life and work, especially in real estate. Early on, I faced situations where things didn’t go as planned—whether it was a deal falling through or navigating uncertain markets—but I realized that staying focused on solutions instead of dwelling on the problem was key. Read more>>

Katelynne Truax

Where does my optimism come from? Honestly, I’ve always been an optimistic person, for as long as I can remember. When I was younger, I watched a movie called Anywhere But Here with Susan Sarandon and Natalie Portman, and there’s a song in it that goes, “Be optimistic, don’t be a grumpy, when the road gets bumpy, just smile, smile, smile, and be happy. Don’t wear a long face, it’s never in style, be optimistic, and smile.” Read more>>

Angela Shurina

Many people think optimism comes from an easy life, good luck, or even genetics.
Steve Jobs famously said, “you can only connect the dots looking backward”, looking backward I’ve learned that consistent optimism is a choice—focusing on the bright side despite life’s challenges. And I’m no exception. Read more>>

Amanda Hietter

As a travel advisor, I am in an industry that is fully sales focused and that requires a ton of optimism. My optimism honestly comes from my relationship with the Lord. Each morning I start my day in God’s word and in prayer, which gives me an inner joy throughout my day. As I strive to be more like Him each day, I realize that showing optimism to people I meet or talk with allows for more opportunities to come to my life. Any time I’m feeling down, I try to do something I love and focus on what I can control, and that helps me stay optimistic for what the future holds. Read more>>

Janet Tillman

My optimism comes from:
•Time, wisdom and age
• My faith: I have been guided by the belief that there is always resources available to me—money, a place to live, people to talk to and food to eat. That ties into my other beliefs that: 1. Things always work out. 2. Everything is temporary. 3. When I engage in life with a childlike curiosity and wonder, it helps me to deal with challenges easier. 4. I have many people in my life who are available to support me–no mater what. 5.  Read more>>

Dionne Webster-cpx

Capoeira is African-Brazilian martial art and a powerful way to build both physical and mental strength. The combination of fluid movements, acrobatics, and rhythmic music not only helps to improve agility, balance, and endurance but also fosters a strong sense of discipline and mindfulness. The communal aspect of Capoeira can also boost your mood and provide a supportive environment, all of which are great for maintaining optimism. It sounds like a perfect blend of exercise and cultural expression that supports both your body and mind! Read more>>

Andi Eloise

I grew up in an unsafe, abusive household, and under the constraints of purity culture and conservative Christianity. They brought with them, as you can absolutely imagine, many wounds. However, I have been consistently surrounded in various seasons by incredibly generous, loving, and thoughtful people who help me find and hold onto truth and hope amidst pain and fear. I have been shown again and again what it means to have and express joy in even the smallest parts of our days, so much so that when I struggle with imposter syndrome, a lack of confidence, an abundance of anxiety, or even real depression, I am able to see glimmers of a better tomorrow. Read more>>

Galaz Bibbs

My optimism is fueled by several sources. First, it comes from within—believing in my power and ability to shape my circumstances. Second, I see opportunities in challenges and learn from past experiences. Engaging with people from around the world helps me broaden my perspective. Lastly, I reflect on what went well, practice gratitude, and set clear goals to establish a direction for the future. Read more>>

Nathan Chester

My optimism comes from my love of gratitude. Life is so short. Every breath we take is quite literally a miracle. I feel so lucky to be alive and that thankful spirit gives me a positive feeling about the day, the month, the year and beyond. I also work hard. I value putting in work towards a goal. Once I’ve accomplished the goal that gives me confidence that I can accomplish more. This makes me more optimistic based on my on work ethic and history of accomplishments. Read more>>

Jon Antonucci

When I was in my early teens, I came across a saying that, to this day, remains one of my absolute favorites. “I don’t care if my glass is half empty or half full. I’m just thankful to have a glass with something in it.” I loved that quote so much that my sister actually had it put on a shirt and gave it to me as a gift! While the quote itself is nice, it’s the implication of the quote that is so meaningful to me. It represents something we possess as human beings: the right to choose our perspective. Read more>>

Betsy Cohen

I believe the USA can be a better place for all of us. As one of the first women who rose in corporate America, I saw the value that bringing that new talent source created for the business community and for my personal well-being. Now, working with international talent and New Americans, I see how the US can be better for all of us if we find ways to use their talents and welcome them into our communities. I saw my mother, a single mom of three after our dad passed away when we were young, rise to the need to support our family.  Read more>>