Thinking Allowed ……

Are we part of the problem
or, a part of the solution?

Chances are high you agree that; “Is the glass half full or half empty?” is a popular metaphor used to contrast optimism with pessimism …… In our rapidly changing world today, barriers of all kinds are fast falling apart. Besides, in the wake of the recent years, we see financial institutions going busts, markets tumbling and economies fraught with uncertainties. Some even became or fast becoming dysfunctional too.

While optimists believe that every cloud have a silver lining. Pessimists just see the potential for rain. Optimists sees the light at the end of the tunnel or a hole in the doughnut, pessimists are not entirely wrong when all they could see are the headlights of an oncoming train or only the hole.

Our ability to deal with problems depend very much on how we view it. Say, if we sees it as an obstacle towering over us, it is almost certain that we will feel overwhelmed, discouraged, incompetent and making us feel like giving up or quit for good. However, if we remind ourselves that problems are only temporary and changeable, that it may present some opportunities to success in the mid or longer term, we will certainly tackle it with an expectation of a successful turnaround or outcome.

While optimism may not help us to avoid the feelings of a loss of positive outcomes, direction or a loss of any kind, it seems acceptance when reinforced with a positive outlook can be valuable. Finding something positive in an adverse situation is not going to be easy. Or, even changing the frame – trying to find positive meanings in a seemingly negative situation will not magically make things rosier. But, don’t you think it will help us learn and coming to terms with setbacks and so forth?

Keep reminding yourself of the things in your life that you have to be grateful for. Low self-esteem is linked with pessimism, anxiety and depression. If we consider ourselves unworthy of success, the cold truth is we will never appreciate it, even if it comes our way. Thus, your first step in your quest to feeling good about yourself is choosing to love and accepting yourself unconditionally.

Are we part of the problem or a part of the solution? I reckon we are both. In our highly competitive, socially connected, and fast changing world today, as an individual, we have opinions and take stands on all issues based on our own perceptions. We are team players as well, whether at work, among friends or as a family member. So while we are part or will remain to be part of the problem (on all kinds of issues) to some people, we too, will remain part of the solution for some as well ……….

Have a great day !!!