I think we can benefit from a radically optimistic (love that phrasing) vision for the future. What does the world - nature, biodiversity, people, “industry” look like once we’ve achieved it? And stories to help people relate to this vision of what is possible. We need to create that new future, together.
Then we need to help (more) people understand … what can I do to help?
There are plenty of reasons to be concerned, rightfully so, and real challenges ahead, but those challenges do create opportunities—and we humans are imaginative and up for a challenge.
Bernie, radical optimism is exactly what this moment calls for—an audacious, clear-eyed belief that a better future is not only possible but within reach. It’s the spark that turns challenges into catalysts, vision into action. A radically optimistic future is one where nature flourishes, industry regenerates, and communities rise, powered by shared purpose. Let’s tell the stories of that future so vividly that people can’t help but lean in and ask, “How can I help?” Because when people believe in a compelling tomorrow, they’ll start building it today.
Well said, Victor. The power of stories to inspire, activate, make the vision—and the impacts of climate change—relatable, and touch people emotionally has come up in quite a few discussions at DC Climate Week. 🌿
Among the National Institutes of Health series of webinars on Climate Change and Health was this discussion of “New, Unique and Necessary Roles for Health Professionals.” It was an eye-opener for me, even though I’m not a health professional. Lots of positive advice on communicating this message.
Wonderful post! I love the pillars. When I shifted from cynicism into a positive approach, I experienced what you perfectly describe as the “dance with the divine depths of our range of emotions.”
Practicing optimism in the anthropocene appears to have links to existentialist philosophies of Paris in WW2. All very good and only makes sense when coupled with activity based upon that sort of outlook.
"Optimism: We embrace optimism not as naivety, but as a radical choice to keep believing in what’s still possible. We recognize optimism as a practice and commit to showing up for that practice, no matter the task ahead."
Wisdom in Anne Therese Gennari's 5 Pillars of Climate Optimism.
This was a really lovely intro to your work, thank you for sharing! I just heard the term apocoloptomist the other day and have since worn the label proudly. Looking forward to learning more! Subscribed :)
I think we can benefit from a radically optimistic (love that phrasing) vision for the future. What does the world - nature, biodiversity, people, “industry” look like once we’ve achieved it? And stories to help people relate to this vision of what is possible. We need to create that new future, together.
Then we need to help (more) people understand … what can I do to help?
There are plenty of reasons to be concerned, rightfully so, and real challenges ahead, but those challenges do create opportunities—and we humans are imaginative and up for a challenge.
Challenges—Solutions—Vision—Action—Radical Optimism
Bernie, radical optimism is exactly what this moment calls for—an audacious, clear-eyed belief that a better future is not only possible but within reach. It’s the spark that turns challenges into catalysts, vision into action. A radically optimistic future is one where nature flourishes, industry regenerates, and communities rise, powered by shared purpose. Let’s tell the stories of that future so vividly that people can’t help but lean in and ask, “How can I help?” Because when people believe in a compelling tomorrow, they’ll start building it today.
Well said, Victor. The power of stories to inspire, activate, make the vision—and the impacts of climate change—relatable, and touch people emotionally has come up in quite a few discussions at DC Climate Week. 🌿
Thank you, Bernie. You may like The Optimism Cafe: Shawn Callahan on Telling Stories https://www.centreforoptimism.com/blog/shawn-callahan
Among the National Institutes of Health series of webinars on Climate Change and Health was this discussion of “New, Unique and Necessary Roles for Health Professionals.” It was an eye-opener for me, even though I’m not a health professional. Lots of positive advice on communicating this message.
https://vimeo.com/1065114239
Wonderful post! I love the pillars. When I shifted from cynicism into a positive approach, I experienced what you perfectly describe as the “dance with the divine depths of our range of emotions.”
Love to hear that -- keep up the (important) practices of optimism!!
Thank you! Need to check it out!
Practicing optimism in the anthropocene appears to have links to existentialist philosophies of Paris in WW2. All very good and only makes sense when coupled with activity based upon that sort of outlook.
We are creators of our own optimism!
"Optimism: We embrace optimism not as naivety, but as a radical choice to keep believing in what’s still possible. We recognize optimism as a practice and commit to showing up for that practice, no matter the task ahead."
Wisdom in Anne Therese Gennari's 5 Pillars of Climate Optimism.
Thank you for paraphrasing Victor!!! YOU GOT IT (I know you do)
Our Australian election on the weekend was the optimists vs. pessimists. Guess who won?
https://open.substack.com/pub/victorperton/p/i-was-raised-to-be-an-optimist-prime?r=f4d9m&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
Optimism Wins !!!!
Yes, optimism wins!
This was a really lovely intro to your work, thank you for sharing! I just heard the term apocoloptomist the other day and have since worn the label proudly. Looking forward to learning more! Subscribed :)