It is tempting to look around at the uncertainty and change in the world and feel down about what is happening now and concerned about what might happen in the future. But we have a choice to meet any situation with either pessimism or optimism. Studies have shown that people who are optimistic live 11-15% longer, so embracing optimism has health benefits. Here are some ways to maintain your focus and perspective heading into the New Year.
- Look for the light – As Mister Rogers is famous for saying, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” The number of nonprofits in the U.S. has been steadily increasing and according to Statista an estimated two million were registered with the IRS in 2023. One of the biggest perks of working at Teak Media is getting to witness firsthand and raise the profile of organizations who are striving to make the world a better place. Look at the roster of clients we are fortunate to work with and you’ll see what I mean. The work of nonprofits has never been more important. Seek out, support, and celebrate those who devote their lives to helping others.
- Be vigilant about facts – Seeking optimism doesn’t mean hiding your head in the sand. Don’t stay away from the news out of fear of what it could reveal, instead consume news in a critical way by seeking facts rather than relying on opinion pieces, which are designed to get an emotional response that generates clicks. Focus on what is happening rather than endless speculation about what might happen.
- Do something – Everyone has topics they are passionate about and issues that are important to them. When you see a change happening that you object to, rather than complaining, look for ways to make your voice heard. Donating, volunteering, signing a petition, reaching out to a local politician, writing a letter to the editor, and attending a rally are just some of the ways to be part of the process. Find the one that works best for you.
- Listen carefully – Although there is debate about whether it was Walt Whitman who said the “be curious not judgmental” quote used to great effect in the show Ted Lasso (the clip is worth a watch), the idea is one we should all embrace. It can be hard and unpleasant listening to a person who is saying something about which you vehemently disagree, but taking the time to ask them questions like “why” or “how” and really listening to the response can educate you both, while making the person feel heard rather than dismissed and judged.
- Deal with change instead of avoiding it – Change isn’t always easy. When people have been doing something one way for several years, it’s easy to get comfortable and stay with what they know over trying something new. But learning something new can be invigorating. As we’ve explored in this blog, changes like AI are coming and we’re better off investigating them and finding out how they can help, rather than stubbornly refusing to give them a try.
- Be grateful –The mental and emotional benefits of showing gratitude have been well documented. The end of the year is an excellent time to appreciate what you have and what you have done over the past year. Thank those who have helped you and forgive those who have hurt you throughout the year. Both you and they will be better for it.
A good way to end this blog about embracing optimism is by thanking you, the audience, for reading the Teak Talk blog and my talented and kind co-workers for sharing their wisdom each week. Together we can all make 2025 as good as the attitude we bring.
