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Discussion

Optimist v Pessimist

An interesting thought....I recently read an article that happier (optimists) people are more successful, makes sense right? I also read a book review about an author who wrote about profiles of sociopaths, stating that 1 of every 25 people has the characteristics of one. (Anyone know someone who seems 'not quite right?') Not the Ted Bundy type, but the type A personality who goes on to become a CEO, thus, also being successful. The type of person that will do anything to achieve success. (Judith Stout is the author and is a PhD in clinical psych).

Is the latter example an optimist or pessimist?

I was just thinking about this cuz I tend to be pessimistic but that does not lend credence to the fact that I am happy and successful. I have self-doubt and have been stubborn since I came out of the womb and that trait has helped me survive many crises. I am also a Gemini and although I don't read my astrology chart or know anything but the basic astrology stuff, when I read about the Gemini sign, I am her to a T so to speak. The point is I wonder if all these things combined ( sign, traits, etc.) are already present, innate perhaps, before u supposedly form your permanent personality at age 7. Again, optimist v pessimist.

Sitting here, a year away from my program, I can see sheer stubborness propelling me to succeed even when the going gets real tough. One could say that is pessimistic, I say it's survival.

Which one are u?

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An interesting thought....I recently read an article that happier (optimists) people are more successful, makes sense right? I also read a book review about an author who wrote about profiles of sociopaths, stating that 1 of every 25 people has the characteristics of one. (Anyone know someone who seems 'not quite right?') Not the Ted Bundy type, but the type A personality who goes on to become a CEO, thus, also being successful. The type of person that will do anything to achieve success. (Judith Stout is the author and is a PhD in clinical psych).

Is the latter example an optimist or pessimist?

I was just thinking about this cuz I tend to be pessimistic but that does not lend credence to the fact that I am happy and successful. I have self-doubt and have been stubborn since I came out of the womb and that trait has helped me survive many crises. I am also a Gemini and although I don't read my astrology chart or know anything but the basic astrology stuff, when I read about the Gemini sign, I am her to a T so to speak. The point is I wonder if all these things combined ( sign, traits, etc.) are already present, innate perhaps, before u supposedly form your permanent personality at age 7. Again, optimist v pessimist.

Sitting here, a year away from my program, I can see sheer stubborness propelling me to succeed even when the going gets real tough. One could say that is pessimistic, I say it's survival.

Which one are u?

About the sociopaths.... to me it seems like it's more 1 in 3 than 1 in 25 :lol2: ( For example the overwhelming fascination with Child Mediaography in this country and other sick things is very disturbing)

The debate over "nature vs nurture" is a very interesting (anybody who has taken Sociology or Psychology classes is familiar with that particular subject) and it is hard to tell why so many people are completely out of control...whether it's their nature or their environment. I believe it's the combination of the two.

It's good to be "strong-willed" (I dont like the expression "stubborn")

Sounds like you are somewhat of a perfectionist....

I may get frustrated and discouraged about stuff, (scream and cry if necessary) but like you I always pick myself up and drive forward.

Good luck in your future

  • Columnist
Sitting here, a year away from my program, I can see sheer stubborness propelling me to succeed even when the going gets real tough. One could say that is pessimistic, I say it's survival.

Actually, that's not pessimism, it's optimism.

Optimism can be defined as believing an outcome will be positive, despite overwhelming odds or obstacles. This is the characteristic you're describing.

I do believe there's a lot to be said for optimism as a general philosophy. Some people confuse optimism with denial or a lack of touch with reality. Personally, I think it's possible to be realistic and optimistic at the same time. For example, we all know nursing school will be filled with difficult obstacles (realism), yet we maintain a positive belief we will succeed (optimism).

I am an optimistic person. I prefer to choose to believe I can succeed than to assume I cannot.

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