Irrational Optimism
I read an article today that really made me think. It was about irrational optimism and how it is an important quality every successful person needs. In order to be successful, you don't need to have a great mentor, enough startup money, an outstanding business plan or an award winning idea. The best way to be successful is to have irrational optimism.
Being successful means you need to put aside all of those self-doubts: Feeling that you aren't dedicated enough, smart enough, or in spite of your best intentions and best efforts you won't succeed.
Easier said then done when you have well meaning family and friends around who don't support your ideas/actions. It's not that they are mean and unsupportive, it's because they care about you and don't want to see you fail.
Most of us are very skilled at identifying problems and playing devils advocate because we have an opportunity to look smart. And who doesn't want to look smart?
If you listen to all of these "prophets of doom" then you will never try that new business, go for a job promotion, learn new skills, or struggle to overcome obstacles. How will you ever succeed if you don't ever believe in yourself and have "Irrational Optimism."
Irrational Optimism isn't an empty, put your head in the sand and cross your fingers and hope that your life will be successful concept. Never stop trying to be rational, smart or improve your skills, but don't forget to be irrationally optimistic.
"You deciding that you will succeed has more strength than anyone else's decision to get in your way." -Michael Bernoff
"No amount of self-belief can ensure success, but the smallest bit of doubt can ruin your chances. Belief in yourself will take you to places no external forces ever can" - Jeff Haden
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Hi Valerie,
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PS: No affiliates or business angle
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Nice post Valerie. Yes, we do need to learn to switch off from those around us that are "prophets of doom". Some people also don't want others to succeed incase they themselves "get left behind". They worry that the other person will grow away from them. That is why I believe it's important to spend time with like minded people - to get support and a sense of "belonging" to that which we are aiming for.
Thanks Annie. I have to remind myself everyday to be irrational optimistic. Some days are easier than others. I just keep telling myself to take a small action step and then another. I know that all these small steps will take my business in a positive direction.