Altruistic Optimism: A New Optimism Superpower

Altruistic Optimism: A New Optimism Superpower
By Victor Perton

John Dabell recently tweeted, “Forget AI, what about AO? Altruistic Optimism is the real deal, it’s easy to dish out, it helps others experience paroxysms of hope, and gives us all the warm fuzzies.”

This fresh concept resonated with me and earned a spot on our list of Optimism Superpowers.

So, what is altruistic optimism? At its core, it’s the practice of uplifting others through optimism. It’s a combination of generosity and hopefulness—a belief in better futures for everyone, coupled with actions to inspire and support those around us.

The Power of Altruistic Optimism

Altruistic optimism is transformative. It encourages:

1. Hope Sharing: By radiating optimism, we help others see possibilities in their challenges.
2. Community Uplift: It nurtures stronger relationships and communities, reinforcing collective resilience.
3. Empowerment Through Positivity: It inspires individuals to believe in themselves and act with confidence, knowing they have someone cheering them on.

This concept resonates across domains, including design. Dennis P. Paul captured this sentiment beautifully: “From the very start, design practice has always had a built-in altruistic optimism that can only be described as naive, but at the same time allowed designers to self-confidently address topics reaching far beyond the shaping of things”​. Like altruistic optimism, design is often a leap of faith in a better future.

Similarly, the holiday season amplifies altruistic optimism. Lindsay Houghton notes, “What truly makes this season come alive for me is the way in which the spirit of the season truly brings out almost everyone’s altruistic optimism (if even for just a few weeks).” Asia Sular echoes this sentiment, writing, “As a collective, we come together to shelve our heavy skepticism (if even for just a few weeks) and invite in a truly altruistic optimism”​​.

Adding Altruistic Optimism to Your Life

• Ask Strength-Based Questions: Replace “How are you?” with “What’s been the best thing in your day?”
• Celebrate Others’ Wins: Shine a light on the successes of people around you.
• Share Optimistic Stories: Tell inspiring tales of triumph and hope to shift perspectives and foster encouragement.

Altruistic optimism isn’t just about what we feel; it’s about what we give. It’s optimism in action.

Reflection:

• How can you use altruistic optimism to uplift someone today?
• What opportunities might arise if this became a cornerstone of your personal or professional relationships?

As Dennis P. Paul’s reflections on design and the holiday season remind us, altruistic optimism transforms how we approach challenges and opportunities. What if we embraced it daily, not just in December or within our professions, but as a way of life?