We all live somewhere on the optimism-realism-pessimism spectrum likely depending on our upbringing and subsequent life experience. The daily headlines right now would, of course, challenge even the most optimistic of us yet buying into this ‘doom’ or sinking ever deeper into it isn’t helpful.
Tending our thoughts and words is vital right now in helping to build a better world. However black and bleak the world may look we must be careful not to add to the negative climate as harsh, angry, destructive thoughts and words do.
Yet there’s danger too in occupying a space of unrealistic or ‘blind’ optimism. Such a ‘Pollyanna’ take on the world means we disregard the unpleasant things that need attention. A belief that ‘things will turn out alright in the end’ is only useful if we are also taking action to support a positive outcome.
Realistic optimism is what we need right now, allowing us to see and respond to events in proper context without editing or amplifying the more challenging aspects.
We must pay attention to our own thoughts – are they adding negativity and fear or holding a higher and more balanced perspective? A practice of deep reflection can help us build our radar to spot these thoughts forming and connect to a higher and deeper wisdom that brings light and hope in the most challenging situations.
Then we can develop our practice of balanced acceptance. That’s about recognising that whatever challenges arise that ‘touch’ us offer us useful signs and insights if we can stay open to the learning, holding a higher perspective, rather than getting distracted by or drawn into the drama. It’s about understanding that the challenges are both personal, we are in them, and systemic…a conjunction of factors, some of which we have no control over.
Meanwhile acceptance doesn’t mean we let the standards we do have influence over slip. So, in a world that’s so unpredictable we may want to throw our hands up pessimistically and eschew planning and action as pointless. Or, as realistic optimists, we could bring an expectation of the best and planning for the less than perfect to our service.