If 2021 has done one thing, it’s tested my ability to remain optimistic. Maybe it’s the residuals from that global pandemic that’s still rearing its ugly head, but I’ve experienced more ups and subsequent letdowns this year than I have in the last few years- and that includes time spent watching Tiger King in 2020.
Despite the many setbacks that this year has brought, I’m sitting here typing in my bed, cat curled up on my lap, eyes drooping because I need to be up for work in 5 hours…and I’m genuinely content.
Now, I know this feeling may not last long- as a matter of fact, it’ll probably last about, oh, the 5 hours between now and when my alarm goes off. But I also know that if it gets wiped away as I wipe the sleepy expression off my face tomorrow morning and curse the existence of early wake-ups, it’ll undoubtedly return.
I think, for me at least, that’s what being an optimist is. I’m a happy person by nature, but even happy people get tired of being happy at times. Allowing ourselves to be grumpy, cranky, hangry, or road rage-y (one of my more charming qualities) when the situation calls for it is more than fine. It’s healthy. Okay, maybe not the road rage, but you get my point- feel your feels.
The challenge lies in our rebound: after being upset, do we figure out how to bounce back to being happy and optimistic, or do we wallow in self-pity and dwell on whatever situation gave us those negative vibes to begin with? I know which route I’m choosing. Spoiler alert: it’s not continued road rage.
Keeping tonight’s entry short, but sweet- after all, I’m trying to stay optimistic about my impending wakeup (plus, the cat ditched me a few minutes ago in favor of food, so I’m not as cozy as I was when I started writing). But I’d love to know your thoughts on the subject of optimism! Tell me here, or share it with me on my Insta: @teach.explore.repeat
‘til next time,
Lau