Optimism consists of recognizing the most positive side of reality.
Optimism is the predisposition to understand and analyze reality from its most positive aspect . The dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE) also recognizes another meaning of the term, mentioning that it can refer to the philosophical doctrine that grants the universe the highest possible degree of perfection.
It is interesting to note that this word has its origin in the Latin optimum ( the best ). The French writer and philosopher Voltaire was the one who popularized this word, adding it as a subtitle to the story “Candide” in 1759 .
As a philosophical doctrine , optimism is opposed to pessimism (from the Latin pessimum , which translates as “the worst” ), a position centered on the idea that we are in the worst of all possible universes.
Optimism and psychology
Optimism is the subject of study in psychology . In this way, it can be defined as a dispositional personality trait that oscillates between external events and the personal interpretation of them. Thus, optimism is characterized by a tendency to trust that the future will be favorable, which contributes to facing difficulties with good spirits and perseverance . An optimistic person manages to identify and value the positive aspects of each circumstance and individual.
It is very common that when mentioning the word optimism, its opposite immediately appears: pessimism. In this case, the difference is clear between both terms. Thus, while in any situation the optimistic person tries to find solutions, possibilities or advantages, a pessimistic person by nature only becomes discouraged, seeing everything as a pile of disadvantages and damages as well as inconveniences.
An example
A clear example could be given by a relationship that, after many fights and arguments, comes to an end. The member of the relationship who opts for optimism will determine that this breakup is the best solution for a worn-out relationship in which both parties were dissatisfied and suffering, and it means that both are beginning a new stage in which they will be able to find someone who complements them.
The pessimistic lover will sink into the pit of despair and tragedy and will think that he will never fall in love again, that he will never be able to be with anyone again, that he prefers to suffer than to be alone or that he will never find anyone who loves him.
It is often said that optimism contributes to health.
Benefits of optimism
Researchers say that optimists are generally in a better mood , more persistent, and healthier than pessimists. As a result, optimists tend to emerge stronger from traumatic and stressful situations.
It can be said that optimism helps to achieve success , since it involves a permanent attitude of starting over in the face of difficulties and analyzing situations to better understand their nature and take the positive from them.
Can being optimistic be learned? Psychology experts who address this issue explain that to begin to have this attitude, you must follow a series of guidelines when approaching any situation. These include analyzing the situation from its most positive aspects, choosing to find solutions instead of criticizing, not making decisions lightly, or asking for help if needed.