Optimism is good...but not in all situations.
G’day all,
So far we have learned about all the benefits of optimism.
Benefits on health, benefits for being popular, benefits for mental health.
And if you are like me you’ve been waiting patiently for the answer to…’okay, I get it, optimism is good, but how do I become optimistic?!!!’
Firstly, there is a word of caution. Optimism isn’t great for all situations. There are times to be realistic.
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Seligman outlines the following tests.
What are you trying to accomplish?
Are you in an achievement situation? (Trying to sell, win, get promoted
Concerned about how you will feel?
Is your physical health an issue?
Do you want to lead or inspire others?
For all these, use optimism.
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On the other hand,
Is the goal to plan for a risky and uncertain future?
Is your goal to counsel others whose future is dim?
Do you want to appear sympathetic?
For all these, do not initially use optimism.
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The fundamental question you should ask yourself is, ‘what is the cost of failure?’
If the cost is high, then optimism might not be the way to go?
If the cost of failure is low, use optimism.
So the idea here is probably a bit different to some other self-help style strategies you have heard of. You know the ones. Think positively and all will go well. Seligman’s idea is different in that way. There are times for optimism. And optimism has it’s advantages. But there are also times for pessimism.
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Next week, we’ll look at how to use optimism in the situations that warrant it.
Enjoy your week!
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