Focus Point
Accomplish More In Life With Optimism
What a wonderful word don't you think? Optimism allows you
to look at the bright side of life, it is the size of your spirit and the
courage of your character. Optimism allows you to accomplish in life that which
a pessimist would never dare. It allows you to forgive yourself of past
mistakes and move forward, to come back after failure and try again, to keep on
moving forward even when circumstances do not change right away. It allows you
to try new things with renewed vigor rather than sour disbelief from past
failures. It breathes life and hope into your life. It truly is amazing what
you can see in life once you know what you are looking for.
Now a few words of caution. Optimism is not an excuse to
pursue unrealistic goals. It does not justify being irresponsible. It does not
change immediate circumstances and will not bend the laws of nature. Optimism
is not a remedy for lack of preparation, for preparation is the foundation of
all success, and having a positive outlook alone does not reduce the need of
preparation. Optimism is not a manipulation tactic to get your own way. And
finally, it does not guarantee quick results. You can make a change in an
instant in your mind, but it takes time, preparation, and hard work to follow
through on the action necessary to change circumstances.
Martin Luther King said it well: "The ultimate measure of a man is not where
he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times
of challenge and controversy." Our optimism is such a powerful
thing in life, and it would seem that every person has a natural response to
one side or the other. Either they are more naturally an optimist or a pessimist.
But in the end you must understand that it is your choice. It is
a choice that you and I make on a daily basis, even moment to moment. To some
it comes very easy and natural, and to others with more challenge and
difficulty, but still a choice none the less.
A story was told of a man who was naturally negative and
would gravitate to pessimism as a natural response. Thank goodness he became
aware of his need to change early in life. By controlling his thoughts and
environment, he was able to learn how to be more optimistic and give himself
encouragement. This in turn effected his success in life. And if one man can,
any man (or woman) can.
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