Optimism isn’t rose-colored glasses, unicorns or eyes-and-ears-closed denial. It isn’t merriment every minute of the day, or utter delight on most days. And it isn’t a trait only some of us are blessed with while others are doomed to a deep, undying pessimism.

Optimism actually can be learned. And it actually helps us be more resilient. Optimism helps us bounce back when we’re facing trials and tribulations and stress strikes, writes author Polly Campbell in her book Imperfect Spirituality: Extraordinary Enlightenment for Ordinary People.

Optimism keeps us well. “Doctors, like positive psychology guru Martin Seligman, rank optimism right up in line next to exercise and good nutrition when it comes to good health-building behaviors,” she writes.

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