.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
Why Optimism
By Victor Perton
At the Centre for Optimism, we ask one simple yet profound question: What makes you optimistic? This inquiry sparks joy, reflection, and insight in individuals from all walks of life. It is a leadership imperative, a strategy for success, and a proven factor in national productivity, innovation, and well-being.
The Case for Optimism
At its simplest, optimism is an expectation that good things will happen and that things will work out in the end.
Optimism is embracing reality with a mindset that focuses on possibilities and solutions. A growing body of research, including a landmark study by the University of Sydney, demonstrates that optimism drives innovation and productivity at a national level. Countries, businesses, and individuals who adopt optimism as a guiding principle see tangible benefits in economic growth, creativity, and resilience.
Beyond economics, optimism significantly improves mental and physical health. Studies by Harvard, Boston University and the American Heart Association have found that optimism is linked to longevity, better cardiovascular health, and lower stress. Optimists are more likely to exercise, maintain strong social relationships, and use problem-solving strategies to improve outcomes.
Realistic and Infectiously Optimistic Leadership
The times call for realistic and infectiously optimistic leadership. The leader who looks back at you from the mirror each morning can shape the culture of an organisation, a community, or a nation. Infectious optimism is not about ignoring challenges; it is about facing them with confidence and inspiring others to do the same.
Leadership research consistently finds that optimists make better strategists, innovators, and team builders. The best leaders use optimism to instill confidence in their teams, encourage bold thinking, and maintain a forward-looking vision even in uncertain times. As Penny Mordaunt, former UK Leader of the House of Commons, put it, "The faultline in politics is not between left and right, but between optimists and pessimists."
The Science of Optimism and Resilience
Resilience is built on optimism. A study by Martin Seligman and colleagues found that the key differentiator in resilient individuals is their ability to maintain an optimistic outlook. Those who believe setbacks are temporary, and that effort leads to improvement are more likely to bounce back from adversity.
Ernest Shackleton, one of history's greatest explorers, exemplified this mindset. Stranded in Antarctica for 635 days, his relentless optimism inspired his crew to survive. Shackleton's leadership teaches us that optimism is not just a survival skill; it is the foundation of resilience and endurance in any crisis.
Optimism in Daily Life and Work
Optimism fosters joy, creativity, and connection in both professional and personal life. Optimistic individuals are likelier to experience better relationships, higher job satisfaction, and an improved sense of purpose. Businesses that cultivate optimism see increased employee engagement, innovation, and long-term success.
There are practical ways to become more optimistic:
Smile! Share a genuine smile with every person you meet today—even yourself in the mirror. A simple, genuine smile can change the atmosphere of any room, lift your mood, and create a ripple effect of positivity.
Joyful Greetings – Instead of the usual "How are you?", ask, "What's been the best thing in your day?" This slight shift transforms conversations into uplifting moments of connection. You might also try, "What's brought you joy today?"
My Best Self—Regularly visualising and working towards the best version of yourself helps align your thoughts and actions with optimism and happiness. Try this powerful practice: Write a diary entry describing a perfect day in your life five years from now.
My Optimism Superpower: Choose optimism as your superpower and reflect on how it shapes your life, work, relationships, and mindset. Are you a natural, resilient, purposeful, or realistic optimist? Discover your optimism superpower and embrace it!
.svg)
.svg)
