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Magnetic Optimism: A Vision of Infectious Positivity
Optimism is an expectation that good things will happen and that things will work out in the end.
Magnetic optimism is an optimism so tangible and a vision so compelling that people want to reach out and touch it.
Magnetic optimism is a concept formulated by Victor Perton, founder of The Centre for Optimism.
Repeating the concept, magnetic optimism is an optimism so tangible and a vision so compelling that people want to reach out and touch it. It is a forward-looking perspective that fosters resilience during tough times and enriches joy. It is about seeing today's reality, imagining a better tomorrow, and taking decisive action to bring that vision to life.
Magnetic optimism is a leadership force that creates momentum, fosters innovation and builds a sense of well-being and resilience in individuals, teams, and organisations.
It builds on Victor's work in spreading "infectious optimism" and dispelling the fog of pessimism.
Magnetic optimism is an optimism so vibrant and deeply ingrained that people are drawn to it, much like a magnetic field pulls objects toward it. This form of optimism does not merely hope for the best; instead, it actively shapes environments where success, productivity, and creativity flourish. It is the type of optimism that fuels action, encourages problem-solving, and turns setbacks into stepping stones.
At the heart of magnetic optimism is The Optimism Principle, which asserts that "the answer to life's most pressing questions is optimism." This principle, championed by Perton and Robert Masters AM, emphasises that optimism is a personal asset and a strategic tool for leaders, businesses, and nations. Research supports this notion, demonstrating that optimism significantly impacts productivity and innovation. A University of Sydney Business School study found that economic optimism directly influences investment in research and development, ultimately driving national productivity and economic growth.
• 54 min
The Optimism Principle
That Optimism Man Victor Perton
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Magnetic optimism is particularly powerful in leadership. Perton's research has shown that the most effective leaders bring infectious optimism to their circle and foster optimism in others. A 2025 global study on "what followers want" showed that optimism and hope are what people value most from their leaders.
Infectiously optimistic leaders cultivate a workplace culture where employees feel valued, motivated, and engaged. They start meetings with the question, "What's going well?". They encourage their teams to visualise success, fostering a forward-thinking mindset that drives innovation and resilience.
Can magnetic optimism be learned? The jury is still out on that question - is it nature or nurture, as Mandela asked of his optimism?
Intentional habit changes can foster infectious, dispositional, and general optimism.
Victor Perton, The Centre for Optimism and other researchers have identified many practices to sustain and spread optimism. Victor's six favourites are: First, smiling a genuine smile with a warm greeting creates an atmosphere of positivity. Second, asking, "What's been the best thing in your day?" to replace "How Are You?" shifts conversations towards constructive and uplifting topics. Third, visualising one's best self aligns thoughts and actions with long-term goals. Fourth, identifying and embracing one's optimism superpower enhances confidence and effectiveness. Fifth, surrounding oneself with optimists fosters an environment of encouragement and growth. Finally, practising gratitude daily and saying thanks more often reinforces a mindset of abundance and appreciation.
For leaders, these practices are essential in building resilient and optimistic teams.
The way meetings are led is a powerhouse for leadership. At the start of a meeting, a useful framing exercise is to go around the table and ask, "What has brought you joy since our last meeting, and what makes you optimistic?"
Magnetic optimism offers a compelling antidote in an era marked by pessimism, fear, anxiety and rapid change. Leaders and organisations that have embraced magnetic optimism, such as those in high-performing teams and resilient communities, have demonstrated stronger problem-solving abilities, higher engagement, and more significant innovation. Successful examples include businesses that have embedded optimism in their culture, fostering workplace environments where employees feel empowered and motivated to drive change. It is not about ignoring challenges but confronting them with a belief in better possibilities. As Perton suggests, optimism is the key to resilience, helping individuals and organisations navigate difficulties with confidence and determination. By becoming magnetically optimistic, one embodies the ultimate mindset and practice of optimism—thriving through challenges and inspiring others to do the same by actively shaping a better future.
Victor Perton's concept of magnetic optimism challenges individuals and leaders to aspire to more than positivity. It calls for creating an environment where optimism is so contagious that it transforms the outlook of entire teams, businesses, and societies. In this way, magnetic optimism becomes a catalyst for progress, proving that optimism is not just an attitude - it is a force for positive change.
Ask Victor Perton for guidance or to share this message with your team or gathering.
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