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.

Guillaume Gevart

My optimism stems from several key influences. Firstly, my heritage plays a significant role. On one side, my family has Jewish roots in Poland, and on the other, Jewish roots in Sarajevo. By incredible fortune, part of my family survived some of history’s darkest atrocities. They faced countless challenges but managed to rebuild their lives in France. Knowing they fought through even the toughest times inspires courage and resilience. Read More>>

Eric Ziech

I’d say a lot of my optimism comes from life experience and how I was raised. I’ve learned that every setback carries some sort of a lesson, and focusing on solutions rather than problems keeps me forward-thinking. A positive mindset not only helps you stay resilient, but also brings energy and encouragement to those around you. And honestly, I’ve never seen much upside in being pessimistic—it doesn’t solve anything, it just makes the weight feel heavier. Also… Ive probably watched one too many underdog movies growing up. Read More>>

Jumoké

My optimism comes from the unknown. Which is odd, because my younger self hated change. Forced to move houses every year or even less, all I’ve ever wanted is a stable place mentally and physically. I’ve only ever desired peace. In my later years of life I’ve come to realise that the resistance of change is what is sabotaging my chances at reaching the peace I so desperately wanted. When you truly understand yourself, what success is to you – is closely intertwined with what you consider to be peace. My peace is being allowed the freedom to create whatever is inside my head, expand on territory I otherwise wouldn’t expect myself to conquer. Read More>>

Lisa Garrett

I believe that our focus has the power to shape our reality. That’s why I make it a priority to keep my mindset and emotions positive. By staying grounded in gratitude and intentionally focusing on the good, I invite more light, joy, and abundance into my life. Read More>>

Dianna Vagianos Armentrout

When I was in my 30s, I made a conscious decision to seek joy. When my aunt’s atypical meningioma began to grow again, I visited Mount St. Mary’s Abbey in Wrentham, Massachusetts. A beloved Cistercian nun from Scotland, Sister Evelyn, told me that we don’t know why these things happen. She said that if I looked, I would see 100 little miracles all around me, even when people are sick. The next time I visited my aunt, Matina, who was bedridden, I watched as her best friend, Giovanna, fed her chocolate. They were laughing. They were telling jokes. It sealed Sister Evelyn’s message into my heart. Read More>>