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I was intrigued to read Rachel Smith, president and CEO of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, released survey results saying, "These results show that voters are feeling what I'm calling an incremental optimism, and they also show voters want a focus on the fundamentals and for leaders to make visible progress on the issues. The best way for leaders to make that optimism grow more quickly is to get basics right: filling potholes and maintaining parks, implementing policies to make housing more affordable and spending tax dollars responsibly."
Despite my years of research on optimism, the term "incremental optimism" had never crossed my path.
From what I can glean, incremental optimism refers to a perspective or approach that emphasises the belief in making progress and achieving positive outcomes through gradual and consistent effort. It involves focusing on small, achievable improvements or wins to build momentum towards a larger goal. This mindset encourages resilience in the face of challenges and promotes a growth mindset, as individuals believe in their ability to improve and overcome obstacles over time.
I asked Rachel Smith, President and CEO of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, what makes her optimistic.
Rachel told me, “I say all the time that I’m an optimist and a pragmatist, and what has me optimistic right now is seeing ripples of progress in our city and region. From hiring more crisis responders to resolving homeless encampments and opening more affordable housing units, thoughtful and intentional work – sometimes incremental in nature – is leading to real results. When we prioritize making progress over performative politics, things get better. While Seattle has problems, our promise far outweighs them, and that gives me great optimism.”
Incremental Optimism in Civic Planning and Financial Markets
Rachel Smith's observations underscore the applicability of incremental optimism in civic management. They show how prioritising fundamental services can incrementally enhance a city's living conditions. Similarly, in the financial sector, incremental optimism is driven by improved earnings resilience and positive investor behaviour, highlighting its versatility as a strategy for navigating uncertainties and fostering growth.
The Benefits of Incremental Optimism
- Attainable Goals: Incremental optimism breaks down intimidating objectives into smaller, manageable tasks, making daunting goals feel achievable.
- Increased Self-Efficacy: Witnessing progress through smaller tasks boosts one's belief in tackling more significant challenges.
- Adaptability: This mindset allows for adjustments based on ongoing feedback, enhancing overall responsiveness to challenges.
- Sustainable Motivation: Incremental optimism offers a sustainable approach to achieving objectives, contrasting with the fleeting nature of more passive or pessimistic views.
Conclusion
Incremental optimism represents a practical philosophy and provides a structured framework for achieving sustainable success. Whether addressing civic services or navigating financial markets, it enables individuals and communities to make consistent, meaningful progress toward their ambitious goals. This proactive, positive outlook gears all efforts towards gradual yet meaningful change, embodying a sustainable approach to optimism.
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