The Dividing Line Between Optimism and Irrational Behavior

Optimism is a positive attitude that brings sunshine into one’s life. Everything looks different and promising when you are an optimist, and problems and difficulties look less severe.

With an optimistic state of mind you expect and believe that your plans would turn out well, and this increases your chances of success.

With an optimistic state of mind you become a happier person, and more fun to be with.

Sometimes, however, optimism goes too far, and one can cross the line from optimism, to irrational thinking and irrational expectations. Believing that everything would be okay, taking risks without thinking first, and not using common sense could lead to loss and problems.

Optimism and Irrational Behavior

Be an optimistic person, but also be a cautious person. Going out without a coat on a very cold day is not a wise thing to do. You may believe you will not catch a cold, but this is not something wise to do.

It is irrational and irresponsible behavior to believe you will pass an examination without reading and studying first.

This is irrational and irresponsible behavior to believe you will find your way in a place you have never been, without using a map or asking for directions

It is irrational and irresponsible behavior to drive with almost no fuel and not to enter a gas station, believing that somewhere later on your way you will find another gas station.

It’s great to be optimistic and believe you will achieve great success when you start a business, but before starting, you need to make plans, make financial calculations, and know who your competitors are.

Optimism becomes an asset, when you believe in yourself and expect the best, but at the same time you use common sense, act wisely, and take positive action. With this attitude, you see the road ahead and are aware of the risks, but you are confident and positive, and allow nothing to stand on your way.

Sometimes, people look optimistic, but at the back of their minds there are worries and fears. This kind of attitude is not helpful. Optimism means positive thinking and not allowing negative thoughts and worries to occupy your mind.

Mere optimism, without taking action is not enough and could lead could to disappointment. To ensure that your optimistic attitude helps you make the positive changes you are expecting, you should be a doer, not just a dreamer.

Optimism and Irrational Behavior

Always be aware of the fine line dividing between optimism and irrational behavior and take care not to cross it. Allow optimism, but also common sense.

Remember, there is rational optimism and there is irrational optimism. Be careful of what you choose.

“Optimism is essential to achievement and it is also the foundation of courage and true progress.”
– Nicholas M. Butler

“One of the things I learned the hard way was that it doesn’t pay to get discouraged. Keeping busy and making optimism a way of life can restore your faith in yourself.”
– Lucille Ball

“The most fearless hearts, the audacious dreamers, have always maintained a sense of optimism that often flies in the face of the available evidence.”
– Martin O’Malley