Optimism

Expecting that the outcome of any future event would be in our favour -- thats what it is. I always try to stay optimistic. Of course, I sometimes fear my defeat. Everyone does. As the quote goes,

'Try your best and prepare for the worst.'

Thats what I always adher to. You do get good results if you try to follow this. Recently, something happened which made me write about this.

A few days ago, I was playing cricket with my friends. Gully cricket. Few players, restricted space and less time consuming. We play around 10-15 games a day in this short form of cricket. 

A friend of mine was very upset that he hadn't won a single game that day. He usually plays well but it wasn't going his way that day. After a few games, we jumbled teams. I was in his team now and asked him to try his best. Even after our combined  effort we failed to win the first two games or so. He started nagging and came to the wrong conclusion that irrespective of the effort he puts in, he couldn't win any game that day. I was really irritated when he said this. I really don't like pessimists. Always in despair. Firm believers of luck. Don't get me wrong. I'm not judging him solely on the basis of this instance. He acts this way all the time. I've known him for two good years. 

I, on the other hand, believe in the effort I put in and the path I choose. Never ever give up. That's my motto. I want to prove him wrong desperately. It was getting dark and we decided to play one last match. We were given a target to chase and went to bat first. And I did it! We won and wanted him to get a better view of things. The bigger picture of all this. 

Pessimism can weaken your efforts and confidence, thus leading to misery and hopelessness. I'm not implying that being optimistic may lead you to your goals but it will certainly reduce the number of obstacles in your path to success.