We’re talking about a "together we can deal with this" approach. A positive outlook is an empowering and energizing world view. This approach recognizes that it is our strengths and not our weakness that help us move forward. This is true both for us as individuals and as members of groups.

A positive outlook does not present an idealized view of the world. Instead, those with a positive outlook reframe what has been referred to as problems and obstacles. Those with a positive outlook tackle the same issues, by seeing them as challenges and opportunities.

The fun available with a positive outlook keeps the energy level high. So much of what has passed for fun has been, instead, griping and name calling. With a positive outlook, our fun comes from cheering people on, celebrating success and laughing about how next time we will overcome the small things in life that sometimes distract us from a bright vision of the future.

A Positive Outlook Exists When People:

• Regularly recognize individual and collective strengths
• Acknowledge "problems" as important opportunities for improvement and growth
• Do not discount achievements by calling attentions to weakness (changes "buts" to "ands")
• Seek out win-win or mutually beneficial solutions to perceived tradeoffs

• Use opportunities to include fun