In every conversation with a remarkable leader, there comes a moment when optimism shifts from an idea to something living and breathing. Speaking with Megan Main, Chief Executive of New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), was one of those moments.
Megan leads one of New Zealand’s most important public institutions, a place where optimism is not abstract, but essential. The ACC is a world-unique system that supports New Zealanders and visitors who experience injury, helping them recover, rebuild, and return to life. It is a scheme grounded in fairness and compassion, and under Megan’s leadership, it continues to evolve with a sense of purpose and humanity.
When asked what makes her optimistic, Megan shared that optimism is not something you are born with; it is something you practise.
“Optimism is a mindset. It is what you make of the situation you are in, dealing with the reality you find, not how you wish things were.”
As an engineer by training, Megan approaches optimism with realism and discipline. Her leadership blends empathy with practicality; a kind of realistic optimism that sees clearly, plans wisely, and still believes in better.
Megan reminds us that optimism is not waiting for circumstances to improve, but improving them through thoughtful action.
During the height of the global pandemic, Megan co-led New Zealand’s Managed Isolation and Quarantine system; one of the most complex operational challenges in modern public service.
Her approach was simple yet profound: focus on what is real, stay anchored to purpose, and hold onto the joy that reminds people they are human.
“Even in the most difficult times, we found joy, sometimes by wearing funny hats or celebrating the small wins. That sense of joy kept us human.”
In a moment when fear and uncertainty circled the world, Megan brought optimism that steadied others. She describes those days not as a burden, but as “one of the most incredible leadership times” of her career.
Today, at ACC, Megan continues to lead with calm courage and a joyful spirit. She believes optimism begins in small moments — in breathing deeply before the day starts, in walking through Wellington’s gardens with her dog, and in noticing a family of ducks on the pond.
“I have been loving watching the world’s best duck parents. They are so attentive, and still have nine out of their ten ducklings a month later. Watching them each morning just makes my day.”
This is optimism in practice — an awareness that joy and perspective are not luxuries, but leadership tools.
Megan’s story is a reminder that the best leaders are those who meet reality with open eyes and an open heart. They do not deny difficulty; they transform it.
Her optimism is luminous yet grounded, confident yet compassionate. It is a form of leadership that does not just inspire others to do their best; it invites them to believe that better is possible.
In an era where cynicism can seem easier than hope, leaders like Megan Main show us another way: one where optimism becomes the foundation for courage, creativity, and care.
At The Centre for Optimism, we believe that optimism is not only a mindset but a movement. It is how we build stronger teams, healthier communities, and better nations. Because optimism is not only a state of mind, it is a way forward.
💡 Reflection:
What is one small practice that helps you bring calm, joy, and perspective into your leadership, just as Megan does each morning among the ducks and the dawn light in Wellington?