A Case for Optimism

Happy New Year. I haven’t posted anything in some time, but writing more regularly is something I intend to return to.

The start of this year hasn’t brought any particularly good news. In my conversations over the past few months, I’ve sensed a great deal of uncertainty and anxiety. I’ve felt much of the same myself. Because of that, one of my commitments for 2026 is simple but intentional: to be more positive.

Much of the distraction we seek comes from fear, often vague, persistent worries that occupy our minds. While distractions can provide temporary relief, they frequently pull us away from what we actually want or need to be doing. In some cases, they can even become self-destructive. A positive mindset reduces the need for this kind of escape by helping us face challenges directly.

A negative mindset trains our attention on problems. A positive one shifts our focus toward solutions. When we see the world through a fearful lens, our decision-making suffers. Fear narrows perspective; optimism expands it.

One helpful step toward a more optimistic outlook is remembering that life is cyclical. Difficult periods, whether personal or global, are temporary. They come and go. Another step is practicing appreciation. No matter our circumstances, there is always something to be grateful for, and the more we practice noticing it, the more natural optimism becomes.

Over the past several months, I’ve fallen out of some habits that once helped me manage anxiety and maintain a positive outlook. One of those habits is mindfulness. Negative and anxious thoughts usually pull us into the past or push us into the future. When we bring our awareness back to the present moment, we often find reasons to feel grounded, appreciative, and content.

Whatever goals you’ve set for yourself this year, remember that an optimistic mindset will help you reach them. More importantly, it will help you find more happiness along the way.