One insight

In times of crisis (pick one, we currently have plenty worldwide), it is better to focus on realistic optimism rather than well-being. Well-being is a passive emotional appraisal, present and past-focused, and sets biased expectations; Optimism is an active goal-oriented process, future focused, with realistic perspectives in mind. We are all hoping for a better future. With a sense of wise optimism, we can believe with a real conviction that these will all return in due time. Also check this Forbes article on 3 reasons why optimism is better than well-being.

One nudge

Optimism is both a personality trait and a product of our environment, and - good news alert - can be trained. A study by the University of Wisconsin showed mindfulness, taught to workers in high-stress jobs, tipped brain wave activity from right to left side of the brain leaving the study participants eeling less anxious, more energized and happier. By consciously altering your thought processes, you can quite literally re-wire your brain.

One quote

»There's no difference between a pessimist who says, 'Oh, it's hopeless, so don't bother doing anything,' and an optimist who says, 'Don't bother doing anything, It's going to turn out fine any way.' Either way, nothing happens.«

Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia