Optimism is the invisible ingredient that powers so much of the incredible progress in society – from entrepreneurs and investors to artists and creatives who believe in something and are optimistic enough to risk their time, money, and reputation. We asked some of the most optimistic folks we know where they think they get their optimism form.
Layla E
It’s not always sunshine and rainbows, but I try to find the silver lining in most situations. Even when things are tough, there’s usually something positive to learn or appreciate. Focusing on the good stuff keeps me motivated and helps me move forward. Honestly, negativity just gets you stuck! Read more>>
Jane Fernando
As someone who has experienced a lot of struggle growing up, optimism becomes a survival tactic. When things are really tough, the only way to move forward is to look ahead. I think I’m a dreamer in nature. I love to think of the possibilities of a brighter future. Read more>>
Jacques Devore
I believe that optimism comes more from how I frame obstacles, difficulties, purpose, and motivation. If you see obstacles and difficulties as opportunities to challenge your capabilities and become more effective then you can be optimistic about encountering these moments in your life. Read more>>
OOZZAA
I truly believe that if you do what you love, with love, things should always work out. We are always exchanging energy with each other, whether we notice it or not. Always important to stay happy and satisfied during journey, even if it wasn’t the original plan. Being open to the unknown and the beautiful surprises on the way is such a miracle we get to experience. That is the magic of life. Read more>>
Nikki McRory
In the heart of Los Angeles, where the sun kisses palm trees and dreams take flight, Nikki McRory’s story unfolds—a tale of unwavering passion, resilience, and boundless optimism. Since 1998, Nikki has dedicated her career to working with children and families impacted by autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Read more>>
Greg Hood
My optimism was built from my resiliency. Growing up in Detroit, MI I survived and endured a lot which over time, fortified me and allowed me to keep going in life. I also endured a lot more while serving in the Air Force and during my time in Afghanistan. Just seeing the impossible happen time and time again throughout life has helped me develop my Mantra – “It’s never over”. Read more>>
Emily Bissen
I love this question! My optimism comes from knowing that there is joy in the journey. I can’t predict what’s going to happen, but I have faith that whatever unfolds is meant to be. There have been times when I was really set on a specific outcome and felt disappointed when things didn’t go as planned. But, as soon as I took a step back and looked at what actually happened, I realized it worked out for the best. Read more>>
Barry Wolfryd
I’m not sure if optimism is innate or something that is learned. But as long as I can remember my attitude towards life as been very positive. Even though as a child I lost my father at an early age I seem to have had a certain resilience to hard knocks and a commitment to moving forward. Read more>>
Zoë Anne Kessler
“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.” – Helen Keller When I think about my life as an artist, omniscient optimism has defined my path. A Catholic, a Capricorn, and a candid writer all wrapped into one, I am stubbornly spiritual. I regulate the rules of my real-life religion, and in that realm, everything happens for a reason. Read more>>
Brittany Ference
Having a manifestation practice, building a trust muscle with your intuition and trusting in God’s leadership builds a solid foundation for knowing that if this isn’t for you then something better is on the way. The Universe always has your back and is always wanting to give you what you are dreaming of, you just have do your inner work and confront your limiting beliefs, own the fact that you deserve your wildest dreams, take aligned action, and trust that it will show up. Read more>>
Chris Ferrara
One of my favorite quotes is “Did you have a bad day? Or did you have a bad five minutes that you milked all day? (unknown)” I do my best to try to look on the bright side of life at all times. There is always someone who is in a worse situation than me- whether it be physical, mental, emotional, or financial. I have lost many people close to me, so I understand how precious life is. Read more>>
Keith Nixon
I think growing up in a faith-based household encouraged an optimistic & positive outlook. I am fortunate to have parents who were & remain progressive & forward thinking. I was raised with two principles in mind: be the change you want to see & always leave it better than you found it. Read more>>
Nicholas Altomare
Optimism, outlook, mindset all come from a place of gratitude and appreciation, not for where I am and what I have, but for things like a beautiful sunrise, a cloudy or rainy day, a bird singing a song, the waves of the ocean, or simply the world around us, which can be easily taken for granted as we shuffle around from place to place every day. Read more>>
Lois Shih
Delusion. Kidding! But in all honesty, I think my optimism comes from practice. I remember not even five months into moving to LA, my ceiling collapsed due to the rain. And mind you, I lived in a small lil studio, so it was beyond terrifying. Other not-so-great things had also happened leading up to “the collapse,” but that particular event was pivotal in driving me to a deep depression. I isolated myself from my friends, stayed home all day, and cried for months. Read more>>
Emily Lonergan
My optimism is deeply rooted in my journey through adversity. Despite a difficult upbringing and experiencing a great amount of trauma during my childhood and adolescence, I’ve managed to cultivate a hopeful outlook on life and not let my past define me. I think people often mistake optimism as toxic positivity. Read more>>
Kim Morris
Your perception is your reality, and that perception is also a choice. I don’t always think the world as sunshine and rainbows, but more often than not, I choose to. Growing up, I was much more cynical. I had a negative outlook, and that became my reality. Read more>>
Yui Shibata
I am not fully optimistic but I’m trying to be optimistic as much as possible. But I also think it is not a bad thing to be pessimistic, and accepting pessimistic is how I become optimistic. One of my comedian friends I admire told me that all human beings are easily negative because of instinct. He said, “Being pessimistic is the gift from your ancestor, and this is the way you protect yourself from danger”. Read more>>
Kiley Parish
This question is very timely for me. It can be hard to maintain optimism in the midst of brokenness and hurting people. Especially, when there are months with more hard days than good days. I am sure every person engaging in this type of work experiences moments of questioning: “Why am I even doing this?” or “Does this work even matter?”. Read more>>
Black Daliah
Confidence is a crucial factor in the world of photography. It is the key to gaining the trust of your clients and assuring them that you are capable of delivering exceptional results. Many of the individuals I work with are often anxious, especially if it is their first experience with professional photography. Read more>>
Tamara Anderson
I believe in the power of having a positive mindset in which personal and professional goals are achieved through taking actionable steps while doing something daily to practice gratitude. I acknowledge that things may not always go as planned, but that one can adjust the sails of life and chart a new course. Read more>>
