Do you have a reason to be optimistic this year?

It’s less than twenty days into 2020, but some of us have already broken those new year’s resolutions we made in the early hours of January 1st.  I know I have.  It’s not that we don’t WANT to make those changes. We really do. But change is hard, especially when it feels like we are only doing it because of the turn of the calendar.

Making real change… sustaining change... requires a goal. 

It requires purpose, knowledge, and wonder.

It requires applied optimism.

Here is the one thing I have learned: when I share my goals, my friends and allies not only help me achieve them, but they help hold me accountable. They keep me optimistic.

So in that spirit, I am sharing with all of you my three goals for 2020. I would love your help not only in achieving them, but also with staying accountable, and I want to do the same for you.

First, I really want to make Applied Optimism, my consulting and community design startup, a success.  In 2019 I found some amazing collaborators and some worked with some inspiring clients, and in 2020, I would love to work with even  more great leaders and organizations to strategically create impact, experiences, and communities that we all can be proud of.  

Second, I am working with a few collaborators on Optimistic America, a new social startup that is focused on fostering a shared sense of community-based purpose, knowledge, and wonder across the United States. We are developing strategies (and raising funds) to create local and national experiences for individuals who are interested in being part of a more connected and compassionate America.  

If you are interested in being part of Optimistic America where you live (or staying in the loop on our plans) you can sign up here.

Third, I really want to be a better ally and advocate for the people and projects that matter to me, and that includes you and your projects.So AO collaborator Amy Merrill and I created a short three-question goal setting tool for you to share your goals for 2020.  For example, what goals do you want to achieve in 2020? How can others help?  Nobody will know how to help you if you don’t tell them how they can.

Identify and share your 2020 goals here:

Yes, 2020 will be another year of transformation – of ourselves, our communities, and our world.

The real question is, will you change your world or just let the world change you?

I am optimistic that together, we can achieve our goals.  So let’s get to it.

P.S.  Interested in connecting with Applied Optimists? Receiving a more regular dose of optimism and perhaps sharing ideas and opportunities that help us all think and act optimistically?  Join the WhatsApp group chat HERE.