If you think that the glass is half full, you’re an optimist. Conversely, if you believe that the glass is half empty, you’re a pessimist.
It’s good to have optimism. And if you don’t have it, the self-help world would say that there is something wrong with you.
But really? Is this true? I don’t think so.
Can you avoid seeing the negative aspect of reality? Won’t it be similiar to illuding yourself.
If a person is holding a gun to your head, would you be optimistic? Absoultely not.
I think the right approach would be to be both optimistic and pessimistic.
It’s like seeing both sides of the coin. Why can’t we focus on both heads and tails, instead of focusing only on one? It all boils down to your ability to change modes.
Self-help has twisted our sense of seeing reality. Should we even bother about optimism and pessimism? If you get pessimistic at some point in your life, it doesn’t mean that there is something wrong with you—our state of being changes according to our circumstances.
Nobody in this world is full of optimism all the time. We all have some moments where we feel broken.
So instead of taking sides, choose both optimism and pessimism. Don’t force yourself to be on one side.
Because the state of being optimistic or pessimistic is temporary. (You’ll return to your default setting either way.)
So keep your head clear. And think in terms of years, not only in that particular moment.
Let me know what you think in the comments below.