Fuel Your Optimism for Life & Leadership

Many years ago as a teenager, I was in a public speaking competition - I was so nervous and somehow I rose to the top. The gift? A speaking engagement in front of a chapter of "Optimist International." And I received a plaque - now yellowing - that has words I will never forget. I did not know then how important it was to be optimistic - I did not know that sometimes I would need to dig deep for optimism - I did not know that I would build a career on optimism-fueled leadership and positive change. And I am ever grateful for this pledge - the Optimist's Creed (from Optimist International).

The Optimist Creed - Promise Yourself

To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.

To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.

To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.

To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.

To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.

To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.

To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.

To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.

To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.

To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

Thank you, Optimist International - for the impressions you made upon me - and the pledge that continues to hold my focus forward.

~Kathy~

© Kathy Sturgis, Ph.D. Kathy is founder of Refreshment Zone and is a strategic planner and an organizational and personal development specialist with a doctorate in communication. Contact kathy@refreshmentzone.com for more information on motivational programs