Optimism as a Way of Life

“Dare to live the life you have dreamed for yourself. Go forward and make your dreams come true. Life is a journey, not a destination. The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, and to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well."
Ralph Waldo Emerson

“I am fundamentally an optimist. Whether that comes from nature or nurture, I cannot say. Part of being optimistic is keeping one's head pointed toward the sun, one's feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death.”
Nelson Mandela, Long Walk to Freedom: Autobiography of Nelson Mandela

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Optimism As a Way of Life

The purpose of our club, like all Optimist Clubs, is to support the youth of our community and words like “Friend of Youth” and “ Bringing Out the Best in Kids” are prominently displayed on our banners and in our literature. However, the Club also seeks to develop in its membership Optimism as a philosophy of life. And we seek to remind ourselves of this objective by saying the Optimist Creed at the close of each meeting.

There is much available literature which stress the benefits of Optimism in one’s life and studies have shown that optimistic people are happier, healthier, live longer, and are more successful in their careers. But to become and remain optimistic is a lifelong process of development and growth. The Optimist Club can be the vehicle by which you can turn thoughts into practices and practices into habits. The positive impact that other members have on you may shape the way you feel about life. In addition, the opportunities that the club provides for personal growth and for making a positive contribution to the lives of others can empower you to see the positive side of each challenge.