Hope vs Optimism
Although hope and optimism are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Optimism is having confidence in the future and believing that things will work out positively. Hope, however, is the feeling that something desired might actually happen. While these terms may seem similar at first glance, positive psychologists have identified key differences between them.
What is Optimism?
Optimism is being confident about the future or the success of something. Being optimistic can have numerous benefits for a person, as it can lead to greater happiness and less distress. Optimists are less likely to suffer from anxiety and depression due to their positive outlook on life. Even when faced with difficult situations, optimists can adapt and find solutions through humor, noticing opportunities, and persevering through challenges.
For example, consider someone who has recently gone through a breakup and lost their job. They may feel like they have failed in both their personal and professional lives. An optimist, however, would find a silver lining and remain positive about the future.
Psychologists believe that optimism can be learned, but it may also be genetically inherited. If a person is taught from a young age to see the positive side of situations, it can become a lifelong habit.
What is Hope?
Hope is the feeling that something desired might happen. People hope for a variety of things in life, such as happiness, a good job, true love, and good friends. In contrast to optimism, hope is more focused on the individual’s specific desires.
Positive psychology expert Rick Snyder argues that while optimism and hope are related, they are distinct concepts. Snyder believes that hope is an individual’s ability to identify their goals, develop strategies to achieve them, and strive for excellence despite obstacles. This means that while optimism is more focused on a general positive outlook, hope operates within the framework of reality.
Key Takeaways
- Optimism is having confidence in the future and believing that things will work out positively, while hope is the feeling that something desired might actually happen.
- Optimism can lead to greater happiness and less distress, as well as a reduced risk of anxiety and depression.
- Hope, according to psychologist Rick Snyder, is an individual’s ability to identify their goals, develop strategies to achieve them, and strive for excellence despite obstacles.
