"An optimistic disposition may contribute to a greater capacity to experience joyful emotions."
So said Optimism-Expert Professor Lewina Lee, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Boston University's Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine.
In anticipation of The Centre for Optimism's collaboration with Finland-based the "Art and Science of Joy" to share a week of Optimism and Joy in January, I asked Lewina for her view of the relationship between optimism and joy.
Lewina told me, "Optimistic people believe that they can achieve positive outcomes across different life circumstances and feel a sense of agency over important matters. An optimistic disposition may contribute to a greater capacity to experience joyful emotions – from contentment and tranquility to happiness, excitement, and pride – because more optimistic people are able to view their day-to-day experiences in more positive ways and feel greater confidence in their ability to attain their goals."