An optimist is someone who always sees the potential for good things to happen, even in difficult situations. The OPTIMIST acronym reminds us of the important qualities needed to maintain a positive outlook on life. Let’s dive deeper into each of these qualities and how you can be inspired and motivated so as to live optimistically.
Opportunities: As an optimist, you have to believe that opportunities are everywhere, you and I have the power to create them. You must take action and seize them when they come your way. The Bible verse from Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that there is a time and a season for everything, and you should be open to the opportunities that come your way. Opportunities with always clothe themselves as challenges or problems, right now as I write this article in my country Zambia we are faced with the challenge of shortage of power which is produced using hydro energy. In this season many are complaining but for me, I have decided to completely move from total dependency on hydro power to solar energy. I have taken to this situation as an eye opener or opportunity to change my energy source. I don’t know what you are facing now as a problem that thing is an opportunity.
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1 (KJV)
Positivity: Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial for an optimist. You and I must focus on the good in our lives and be grateful for what we have. Positive thinking can lead to positive outcomes. As Norman Vincent Peale once said, “Change your thoughts, and you change your world.” This book impacted me so much that I got my current job at the Central Bank using it in 2005 in preparing myself for interviews. I was very positive when I attended the interview to the extent I failed like we were discussing my professional career. You need it for nourishing your positive diet.
Trust: Trusting in yourself and others is essential for an optimist person.You must have faith that everything will work out in the end. You can trust in God’s plan for our lives, even when things seem uncertain. As the Bible verse from Proverbs 3:5-6 states, we should trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our understanding. Trust is all about knowing that something good will come up in that difficult situation you are in. It is the confidence that you will somehow navigate that challenging situation in your life.
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)
Inspire: Optimists inspire others to see the good in life. You need to develop an ability to see good in every problem you are facing in your life. You and I can lift others up and help them see the potential for good things to happen. Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” There you have it plain and simple, your emotional quotient relates very well with others so much that they can’t forget how you touched their lives.
Motivate: An optimist person is motivated to keep moving forward, even in the face of adversity. The eagle soars higher against the wind and not along the wind. Your adversity is free motivator to your destination or your next level of your life.We can use our positive attitude and trust in ourselves to keep pushing through challenges. As the saying goes, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”
Innovate: Optimists are always looking for new and innovative ways to approach life’s challenges. At the time I was writing this, I had no power in our house but instead of letting this situation discourage me I instead used my phone to write this blog post. Innovation kicked in to use my phone to write a post instead of my usual laptop. You can use your creativity and resourcefulness to find solutions and make things happen.