Definition of Optimism, together with High, Overused & Low behaviors and some Advice on how to Develop this competency (4:14 mins) Copy

Remains positive and hopeful in unclear or ambiguous situations.

Advantages when Optimism is High:

• Sees difficult situations with new possibilities
• Finds opportunities that are not obvious
• Starts on next steps without much delay
• Develops solutions with persistence
• Adaptable to changes

Risks when Optimism is Overused:

• Overlooks real signs of danger, looks at the pros and ignores the cons
• Reframes all negative scenarios into unrealistic outcomes
• Impatient with others who are risk averse
• Avoids people who are too cautious or pessimistic
• Acts hastily without much consideration of consequences

Risks when Optimism is Low:

• Complains when things go wrong or have unexpected outcomes
• Focuses on what is wrong rather than the possibilities
• Unable to find solutions when problems arise resulting in hesitation to act
• Dislikes change and sticks to what works
• Aversion to learning from mistakes

Development Advice:

• Look for what works rather than what isn’t working or what has gone wrong
• Accept mistakes as opportunities to learn and grow
• Take responsibility for failures and then move on with greater insight
• Encourage openness to ideas and contributions of others
• Find the gift in difficult situations by asking yourself “What is the good in the bad?”, “What is the wisdom in the learning?”, “What would you have not learnt if this did not happen?”