The Habit of Optimism

Is Optimism an inherited trait or a honed habit?  Optimism is defined as having "hopefulness and confidence about the future or successful outcome of something; a tendency to take a favorable or hopeful view."  

Ettie Shapiro, LCSW, ACC, ICF accredited coach, author and speaker with over twenty-five years of experience as a psychotherapist and an executive shares with MACsWomen that Optimism is an explanatory style that is a habit of thinking.  Optimists are more successful in all aspects of life, including work and relationships. Like all habits, optimism can be learned, so why not choose to be optimistic?  

It might be somewhat safe to say that we would all like to keep a positive outlook on life.  We would like to learn how to reach for the "right" thoughts at all times no matter what. 

Here is the question: Are you an Optimist or a Pessimist?