The New Year has rolled in with a huge 2019 on the calendar. I hope 2018 was a good year for you. But if last year didn’t meet your expectations, you now have a fresh start. Let’s talk about marching into 2019 with an outstanding trait called optimism.

The object of a new year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul. – G.K. Chesterton

It’s Gonna Be a Great Year

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Some people make resolutions.
Some people feel defeated by them.

Some people establish goals.
Some people are afraid of them.

Some people create elaborate spreadsheets to keep track of progress.
Some people ignore the whole time-to-make-changes mantra.

Some people are excited about the new year.
Some people are defeated.

We can’t benefit the world by expecting the world to serve us. The equation is really simple: obstacles + determination + optimism = leaders whom others respect.

The method used to face challenges is unique to the individual. What’s important is to take charge of who we are and resolve to be better people. If resolutions, goals, and elaborate spreadsheets depress you, look for another way to improve physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.

Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man. – Benjamin Franklin

Optimism is what carries us moment by moment, day by day, week by week, and month by month. We might have a fat wallet, but without a positive outlook, we’re miserable. Fancy cars and expensive homes don’t pave the way for hopefulness. Even faith can’t usher in optimism.