By Victor Perton, Author of "Optimism: The How and Why"
How do you raise the optimism around you? Your optimism and those you spend time with?
One way?
Ask better questions especially when greeting someone.
In many countries and cultures, people routinely ask a question in greeting, “How are you?”
In Australia, as in Ireland, France, Austria, and several other countries, on meeting up with someone, the answer most of the time is the double negative “not too bad” or “not bad.”
Usually, the answer is ignored. Instead, the conversation moves on, or the people walk past each other without exchanging another question.
It’s a wasted question and a wasted answer.
Think about what you ask people when you greet them.
Think about the answer you use.
I have found that asking a question like “What’s been the best thing in your day?" is likely to elicit an answer with a story of optimism and hope.
The first time you ask the question, they may stare at you. After that, you may need to repeat the question.
80% of people share something positive. What a way to improve your day and their day too!
50% of people will spontaneously share something bright.
30% of people will need a prompt - say "Did you see the sunrise?" "A good coffee?"
Some people will be having a bad day. They may say something like “XXXX nothing.”
If they do, it’s general permission to ask, “what’s wrong?” and show empathy, and care and make a difference in their lives.
We have tried this out in workplaces, prisons and schools. There have been lots of reports of success.
A radio announcer told me and his audience he uses it constantly.
A business executive visiting his most challenging client said it worked for him. He told me the client’s CFO looked up with a grin and said, “that’s a great question.”
Could you try and adapt to your language? For example, on a Friday, you might ask, “What’s been the best thing in your week?”
On a Monday, it could be “G’day. What was the best thing about your weekend?”
Experiment: Next time you can interact with someone with a greeting, why don’t you try replacing “How are you” with “What’s the best thing happening for you?” or whatever similar question feels natural?
If that works well, why not try it for two days?
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
.svg)
Project Optimism has produced "The Optimist's Gratitude Journal: 100 days to share and develop your gratitude" which is very helpful. 
.svg)
.svg)
