Definition
Having a consistent disposition that is positive, enthusiastic and confident
What is it?
Being optimistic means staying positive in spite of the circumstances and believing that there will be success. People who are optimistic believe that things will work out for the better.
Why is it important?
Nobody likes being around people who are always negative and expecting the worst. Who wants to hear constant complaining about the boss, the company, or the workload? If you believe that the situation is going to get worse, it usually does. But if you stay confident and believe in the possibility of a positive future, things have a greater chance of working out. Positive thinking often produces positive results.
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Be Positive
First of all, have a positive attitude. We have more opportunities today than in almost any other time in human history. We have the ability to make our lives what we want them to be. With hard work, dedication, and patience, we can achieve our goals. But first, we must believe in the possibility.
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Dream Big
Second, in addition to being positive about the possibilities for your own life, you need to be optimistic about what your team or workgroup can accomplish. Allow yourself to vision the best case scenario. Furthermore, share your enthusiasm and belief in your team. That kind of positive attitude can be beneficial for the rest of the team, can make a strong impression on your supervisor, and will position you for leadership.
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Have a Career Plan
Finally, take responsibility for your own career and be thoughtful and intentional about how you plan it out. Don’t wait for someone to offer you your dream job, be proactive. Define your ideal and create a detailed plan to get there. Everyone should have a one, a three, and a five year career plan that describes the vision you have for your professional life. Know where you’re headed and plan out the steps that you will take to arrive. If you don’t know how to do this, do some research or ask for the advice of older, more established colleagues.