"The fishermen know that the sea is dangerous and the storm terrible, but they have never found these dangers sufficient reason for remaining ashore." — Vincent Van Gogh
Some people say I am optimistic. Others say I am too optimistic. Either way, I am optimistic by nature.
Rooting Out the Fear
I learned how to confront challenges head-on while working at Microsoft. My mentor Jason had an uncanny talent for rooting out the fear that keeps you stuck. Over the years, I have internalized those lessons and come to understand that real problems never get better with time. You have to do something about them. I challenge myself every day to confront the things that worry me the most.
I stay optimistic because of habits I have built over the years. I know what I want. I am willing to take on big challenges. I am committed to a path, and I confront the obstacles in my way.
My challenge for you is to ask yourself: what is preventing you from being optimistic? Optimism is not a personality trait. It is a practice. It starts with knowing what you want, having the courage to confront what stands in the way, and building the habits that keep you moving forward.
The answer might be simpler than you think. It might just be time for some new habits.
Let’s go be great.