Effectively Integrating Realism AND Optimism

What are the positives when we are being realistic?

  1. Our resilient and “stay grounded” approach to day-to-day challenges improves our well-being.
  2. We work well with others to solve common problems and pitch in to do our share.
  3. Our motivation for community building and empathy among people can help make the world a better place.

What are the positives when we are an optimist?

  1. Our “chin-up” and “stay upbeat” approach day-to-day challenges improve our well-being.
  2. We work well with others to provide encouragement and “keep the faith” in adversity
  3. Our motivation to maintain a positive attitude and live our values can help improve the world.

What are the negatives when we are being realistic?

  1. We are perceived as having a negative demeanor.
  2. We can appear negative and whiny during conflict.
  3. Others say we complain too much

What are the negatives when we are being optimistic?

  1. We are perceived as lacking groundlessness.
  2. We can appear naïve and/or change resistant during conflict.
  3. Others say we are in a “Pollyanna” world.

What are the early warning signs that you are being too “realistic?”

  1. When we think the present moment is all there is.
  2. When we forget that humanity has been around for millions of years

What are the early warnings signs that you are being too optimistic?

  1. Others don’t think we care about the trials and tribulations of life.
  2. We think there are easy solutions to complex problems.

Resource: Polarity Partnerships.