1. < Just Want to Talk
Profile picture for Scott R L

Optimism Versus Pessimism

Posted by Scott R L @scottrl, Jan 10, 2024

As you know, people can have a positive or a negative outlook. This is more than just a trite observation; it can affect every aspect of life.

Let me give you an example.

I recently gave a talk at Texas Christian University (TCU) about my stroke recovery. At the end, they gave me a gift bag with some TCU logo stuff, including an umbrella.

Here's how the optimist sees that.

"Wow, how thoughtful! I wasn't expecting anything, and here they gave me some great stuff. Two Papermate Inkjoy gel pens (my favorite!), with TCU-purple ink! An umbrella, too!"

The pessimist says:

"What is this, some kind of cruel joke? I can only use one hand, and I need that to hold my cane! What am I supposed to do with a stupid umbrella? What an insensitive insult! I am so offended!"

See what I mean? This is a minor incident, but it's clear how a habit of seeing everything in the worst possible light takes all the joy out of everything.

[What am I going to do with the umbrella they gave me? Not sure...]

Audio of the talk is here, by the way:


My most recent video about my recovery:

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Just Want to Talk Support Group.

Profile picture for Sue, Volunteer Mentor
Mentor
Sue, Volunteer Mentor | @sueinmn | Jan 6 11:54pm

I am working hard these days to remain reasonably optimistic while acknowledging that life is not perfect. So along with cautious optimism, I do daily exercises in gratitude and contemplation. Some days this works well, other days I just muddle through.
We just had a week in limbo, awaiting some test results and clearance to travel. Instead of living in frustration, we started 3 small projects to occupy our minds and time.
Today permission came, so now we are finishing up the projects and packing to go to our southern tiny house until spring.

I am feeling optimistic that we have a handle on the health issue, grateful that we are able to travel and ready to see my friends and walk among the birds and butterflies that winter near me.

REPLY
1 reply
Profile picture for Scott R L
Scott R L | @scottrl | Jan 7 12:52am
In reply to @sillyblone "Very well done. I cannot fathom the things that have made you unable to do. Progress..." + (show)
Profile picture for sillyblone @sillyblone

Very well done. I cannot fathom the things that have made you unable to do. Progress in your speech is clear and precise.
You are such a beautiful person who has been taking the positive side of a stroke and making it work. Hugs

Jump to this post

Thank you. You are very kind.
I figure that if anyone can benefit from my experience, whether it be educational, inspirational, or just encouragement, it's a kind of lemonade that I'm making from the truckload of lemons I had dropped on my head when I had the stroke.

REPLY
Profile picture for my44
my44 | @my44 | Jan 7 10:25am
In reply to @sueinmn "I am working hard these days to remain reasonably optimistic while acknowledging that life is not..." + (show)
Profile picture for Sue, Volunteer Mentor @sueinmn

I am working hard these days to remain reasonably optimistic while acknowledging that life is not perfect. So along with cautious optimism, I do daily exercises in gratitude and contemplation. Some days this works well, other days I just muddle through.
We just had a week in limbo, awaiting some test results and clearance to travel. Instead of living in frustration, we started 3 small projects to occupy our minds and time.
Today permission came, so now we are finishing up the projects and packing to go to our southern tiny house until spring.

I am feeling optimistic that we have a handle on the health issue, grateful that we are able to travel and ready to see my friends and walk among the birds and butterflies that winter near me.

Jump to this post

Hi, Sue.
I just love your attitude and am so glad that permission to travel has come through, Wishing you safe and happy travels! Enjoy your friends, nature, and the warm weather.

REPLY
View MoreView Less
Please sign in or register to post a reply.