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This morning, I read the article "Relentless Optimism: The One Question That Always Makes Work Better" by Joanne Chan, CEO of branding agency Turner Duckworth. She concluded, "Optimism is obviously an abstract and intangible thing, but I've seen time and again that it shows in the final deliverable. For me, the best work that anyone can do is that in which the care and love for the process is apparent in the outcome. Ultimately, relentless Optimism facilitates the result that every company strives for – a culture and output that makes you, your team, and clients smile – while always aiming for even better."
I was reminded of one of the earliest contributors to my research on the Power of Optimism, Professor Erwin Loh, National Director of Medical Services at Calvary Health Care. He told me, "Be an optimist, and be relentless in pursuing the beacon of hope so that you are always moving towards the light that will guide you, shine on you, and keep the shadows of darkness and despair behind you. You will also make it easier for others to find you, follow you, and be inspired by you. And by moving together in the same positive direction of hope, instead of fear, you can change the world."
As you can imagine, that's a key quote in my book "Optimism: The How and Why"
Relentless Optimism is not merely a sun-soaked disposition; it's an unwavering fire that burns even in the face of life's harshest storms. Another virtue of relentless Optimism is its ability to inspire action. Optimists are proactive. They anticipate positive outcomes, which fuels their determination to take the initiative. They are less likely to be paralyzed by fear of failure, seeing it instead as a learning opportunity. This outlook catalyzes action, making relentless optimists often more productive and innovative in various aspects of life. Optimism is a superpower, and relentless Optimism is an even more powerful superpower, driving individuals and teams to achieve extraordinary results.
The revolutionary optimist Dr Paul Zeitz's offered me powerful testimony to the catalysing effect of relentless Optimism: "An alchemy of clear-eyed optimism mixed with courage fuels my drive to pursue justice for all relentlessly, no matter the odds."
I recently endorsed Paul's book "Revolutionary Optimism: 7-Steps to Living As a Love-Centered Activist."
Relentless Optimism fosters a positive environment. Optimistic individuals are like a beacon of hope, influencing and encouraging those around them to stay hopeful and pursue their dreams. This creates a supportive social atmosphere and drives collective action toward shared goals.
Entrepreneurs are a prime example of the power of relentless Optimism in action. As Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin Technology Council, once observed: "If you're looking for an oasis of Optimism to balance what you're hearing from most economists, talk to an entrepreneur. One survey after another has shown entrepreneurs to be relentlessly optimistic, even Pollyannish, about their chances of success."
In the art world, the virtue of relentless Optimism is celebrated. Pollyanna, a character from a book by Eleanor H. Porter and later portrayed in several movies, is known for her relentless Optimism despite facing challenges. Katie Knight's critique of "Amélie The Musical" mirrors this sentiment: "At its heart is a story of relentless optimism–and this is portrayed in such a touching, genuine manner, it is sure to stay with its audiences long after." This testament once again showcases relentless Optimism's lingering impact and pervasive influence.
One of my heroes in this space is Professor Kate Gould, who runs Relentless Optimism for People with Brain Injury. She shared, "I work with adults who have had severe brain injuries through car accidents, workplace injuries, falls, and strokes, and my job is to help them understand how the injuries affected them. I work with them in their home and community to build a meaningful and positive life. So, Optimism's absolutely essential in this. Otherwise, why even start if you don't hope things will improve? And so I really believe in relentless Optimism, that there's always something that works, and it's our job to figure that out together. What is it that's going to work? Let's try some things out."
The power of relentless Optimism is even more profound when applied to individuals recovering from severe traumas, such as brain injuries. In her work with brain injury survivors, Kate underscores the importance of Optimism: "Optimism's absolutely essential in this. Otherwise, why even start if you don't hope things will improve? And so I really believe in relentless Optimism, that there's always something that works, and it's our job to figure that out together. What is it that's going to work? Let's try some things out."
As you know, my primary research involves asking people, "What makes you optimistic?" Three per cent of our survey respondents self-identify as relentless optimists. Should we foster this characteristic more?
Finally, relentless Optimism is a key ingredient in the recipe for happiness. Optimists revel in the beauty of the present moment while maintaining an affirmative vision of the future. They savour life's joys, large and small, creating a life filled with happiness and satisfaction.
In conclusion, the virtues of relentless Optimism stretch far beyond the individual, resonating within families, communities, and societies at large. Whether it's the unyielding determination of a figure like Nelson Mandela, the buoyant spirit of an entrepreneur, the hopeful message of a musical, or the therapeutic power of Optimism in medical rehabilitation, as highlighted by Professor Kate Gould, the impact is profound and far-reaching. Joanne Chan's insights into the effects of relentless Optimism in work and leadership and Professor Erwin Loh's vision of Optimism as a beacon of hope further emphasise its transformative power. As we navigate the complexities and uncertainties of life, embracing relentless Optimism can provide us with the strength, courage, and resilience we need to thrive. It can turn setbacks into comebacks, dreams into realities, and the ordinary into the extraordinary. Truly, relentless Optimism isn't just a way of thinking; it's a way of living.
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