What Is The Optimist Creed?
Years ago, Mr. Bob Proctor gave me something called "The Optimist Creed." It's typed out on a sheet of paper, and lives on my refrigerator. Yesterday, I started a blog explaining what it was, and then typed it in its entirety.
I got the message that I couldn't post it because it was not original content, and already appeared on the internet. So I deleted it. Then I typed the darn thing again, this time putting it all in quotes. Same message. I took it down again.
Last night when I went to bed I got to thinking about it. Decided the third time is the charm. I will write it again but will put the meaning of each line in my own words and see if that works.
A creed, by the way, is a set of beliefs or aims which guide someone's actions. (Wikipedia)
The Optimists is an international organization of people who wish to live with optimism. The group began in Kentucky close to 100 years ago. Their creed is something that is fitting for all of us here at WA to consider. It's called "Promise Yourself."
Following the title are 10 statements that compass the promises you will make yourself. Here's my attempt at rewording:
To cultivate enough strength that you let nothing disturb your peace of mind.
With anyone you meet, speak to them about health, happiness and prosperity
Find that something special in each of your friends, and let them know their importance
Always look at the positive side of everything so that your optimism will come true.
Aim for the best in how you think, what you work for, and what you expect
When someone in your circle finds success, be as happy for them as you would for yourself in the same circumstances
Move past mistakes that are in the past and make greater achievements in the future
Always be cheerful, and share that cheer by smiling at all you meet
Don't criticize others, but spend your time improving yourself
Internalize these values: be too large for worry, too noble to become angry, let strength conquer fear, and be so happy that trouble has no place in your life
There you have it...If you would like to read it the way it was originally written, go to Google and type in "The Optimist Creed."
Recent Comments
24
Love it, you found a way and didn't give up....and the message was so powerful it needed to be conveyed. Thanks Fran!
Thank you very much should those words be recorded in our mind and make them come true. It depends on us.
Although it started as a collection of writings by Christian D. Larson for motivational thought, ultimately I believe its a belief system, a way of thinking, and living your life in optimism, Fran.
I can see there are all kinds of Optimist Creed events, and "stuff" going on everywhere.
Kaju
It is inspirational. Thanks for introduction to "The Optmist Creed" and I will read more on this.
Fran, I hate to admit it, but although I have heard of the Optimist, I never saw the Creed. What a great idea.
Thanks for sharing. Made this positive old man more positive and more of an optimist!
Joe
P.S. Third time's the charm! Here's an example of two failures and a success. I wouldn't accept the failure, but found a way to make it work. We need to do the same for our businesses.
Some people's motto is: If at first you don't succeed, give up...you probably wouldn't have made it anyhow. You succeeded!
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Love it! It's the first I've heard of it. Thanks for going through the trouble to share with us.
Have a great weekend,
Mickey