The Oversight Of Pessimism

Scroll through your newsfeed and 9 out of 10 stories will tell you the world is ending. Negativity has a monopoly on headlines. Pessimism sells. It captures your interest and your clicks.

We're wired to lookout for danger. We've made it this far because our ancestors were careful. Cautiously sidestepping pitfalls to see another day.

Pessimism sounds smart. It signals thoughtfulness and awareness of risks. Optimism sounds naive.

Optimism is difficult. Requiring patience and long-term thinking. Tragedy happens overnight, progress takes time. Decades, not days.

We're wealthier, healthier and have more freedom than ever before. Yes, there are moments that'll challenge this but that's losing the forrest in the trees.

Optimism isn't believing everything is great for everyone all of the time. It's the belief that most things are getting better for most of us, most of the time.

The average person today is better off than kings of the past. Air conditioning, antibiotics, air travel - luxuries unimagined.

Pessimism is narrow-minded. The stock market is down so capitalism is failing. An injustice occurred so we must tear it all down. A broad brush devoid of context.

Pessimism is emotional. Optimism is data-driven. Pessimism is lazy. Optimism is thoughtful. Pessimism is conformity. Optimism is bravery.

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Herman Ye

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