Pessimism vs. Optimism

PERSONAL VS. SITUATIONAL

Pessimist: "I'm dumb."
Optimist: "That was a challenging test."

Pessimist: "I always get stuck with a weak partner."
Optimist: "I need to help my partner improve."

PERMANENT VS. SHORT-LIVED

Pessimist: "That team always beats us."
Optimist: "We are learning what it will take to beat them."

Pessimist: "I'll never figure out how to do math."
Optimist: "I'll need to spend extra time practicing these problems at home."

PERVASIVE VS. SPECIFIC

Pessimist: "There's no way I can find the time to do all of this. I have soccer practice tonight. My teacher gives me too much homework."

Optimist: "I'll have to use my time more wisely in class. If I spend 45 minutes a night studying, I can get my assignments completed."


Source: adapted from The Champion's Comeback, Jim Afremow, (2016)