I am a very optimistic, silver-lining kind of person. I look for the good in events and circumstances, whether that’s a different interpretation, a potential upside, or a cheerful laugh at the experience. Sometimes, when all else fails, I’ll look at a negative with the view of “well, that’s just the price I pay for [some other good thing].”
I like being optimistic, but I’ve noticed a slight trap in that way of thinking. My optimism sometimes prevents me from looking for ways to improve!
If the seat of your car has a broken piece and it jabs you in the back as you drive, you could shrug and say “Well, that’s just the price I pay for the luxury of driving and all the convenience that brings. Given the choice, I wouldn’t get rid of all that just because of a little poke while I’m driving.” And look, great! That’s a good attitude in general. But also… you can fix the broken part.
You’re allowed to just fix the broken things, even if the total bargain is net positive. It’s not ungrateful, it’s not pessimistic. It’s just you making your world better.
If you have a job and there are things you don’t like about it, you can shrug and say “Well, that’s just the price I pay for having stable employment.” And some of that stuff probably is – you might not be able to fix everything. But you can make improvements, renegotiate, or do anything else you like.
Optimism is wonderful; I strongly encourage it. I still strive to improve.
The Opportunity Machine 