Chasing the Bright Side: The Power of Optimism
What if optimism wasn’t something you’re born with—but something you build? At Reset with Trish, we believe in the power of optimism, and Jess Ekstrom’s story in ”Chasing the Bright Side” is the perfect reminder that we don’t have to wait for perfect conditions to chase something better.
We can start now—with small steps, a resilient mindset, and a belief that something good is ahead.
Jess Ekstrom is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and founder of Headbands of Hope, a company that has donated millions of headbands to children with cancer. She began her mission after witnessing the impact of joy through her internship at Make-A-Wish.
Jess is also a motivational speaker and advocate for women’s leadership and resilience. Her work has been featured on the Today Show, Good Morning America, and in Forbes, making her a trusted voice on optimism, purpose, and personal growth
What is Optimism, Really?
The power of optimism isn’t about being cheerful all the time. It’s about choosing to believe in possibilities—even when life gets messy. It’s trusting that even in hard moments, something meaningful can come from the experience. The secret of optimism lies in embracing possibilities even in the face of fear.
As Jess says, “Optimism gives us permission to dream big, but we don’t have to be big every day.”
“You can’t always change your circumstances, but you can always change your story.”
Step 1: Understand the Power of Optimism
Optimism is a mindset we can grow. It’s not about ignoring reality—it’s about leaning into what could be possible. When we tap into the power of optimism, we turn fear into fuel.
Embrace the unknown, it’s better to try and fail than regret not trying at all. Our stories shape how we internalize experiences, We’re all naturally optimistic as children but we lose it as we experience life. Our inner critic gets louder. We make mistakes and start to protect ourselves from disappointment.
But here’s the thing: you’re still in charge of your story. You can reframe the way you respond, and optimism helps you do that.
Use the T in the TRISH Method: Tap into your vision. What does your “bright side” look like?
Reflect: What would it feel like to lead with optimism instead of fear?
Step 2: Create Opportunities from Hard Moments
Difficult seasons can keep us stuck—or they can push us forward. Jess started her mission after being inspired by children at Make-A-Wish. She didn’t wait until everything was figured out. She took action, even in the face of doubt.
Ask yourself: What’s inspiring me right now? You don’t need permission to begin.
The power of optimism helps us see the meaning behind the mess.
Step 3: Take Small, Brave Steps
Life has ups and downs, and optimism is the key to making the most of it. Understand that many of life’s circumstances may be out of your control, but your stories are yours to shape. A better life begins by viewing failures as stepping stones.
Progress doesn’t have to be dramatic. It just needs to be consistent.
If you’ve been paralyzed by perfectionism, try asking yourself: What’s one small step I can take today toward my goal? Every tiny step counts.
This connects with the S in the TRISH Method: Strengthen your habits
Step 4: Embrace Elasticity & Resilience
Elasticity means being able to stretch, bend, and bounce back. Life will bring challenges (aka – heat)—how you respond is what counts.
Jess reminds us that resilience isn’t about never breaking. It’s about becoming stronger through the process.
Mel Robbins says it best: “The same boiling water that softens the potato hardens the egg.” It’s not about the heat—it’s about what you’re made of.
Think: “I can bounce back. I am adaptable.”
The power of optimism fuels our bounce-back ability.
Step 5: Journal for Growth and Clarity
Journaling helps us understand our thoughts, process challenges, and grow through them. It’s not just writing—it’s building emotional strength and clarity.
Use your journal to:
- Reflect on the stories you’re telling yourself
- Release perfectionism
- Visualize your bright side
This supports R in the TRISH Method: Reframe your mindset.
Step 6: Move Through Excuses
Excuses usually come from fear. Replace “what if I fail?” with “just for today, I’ll try.” Every expert started somewhere. Fear is loud—but action is louder.
When in doubt, come back to H in TRISH: Honor your needs and boundaries.
You don’t need to be perfect to begin—just willing.
Final Thoughts: Optimism in Motion
The power of optimism doesn’t mean faking happiness. It’s choosing hope and action—especially when things are uncertain. It’s owning your story and believing that something better is ahead.
Jess Ekstrom’s book reminds us: “Everything wonderful that has been created or achieved had to start with someone who believed it could be better.”
So, why not you?
At Reset with Trish, we’re all about mindset, resilience, and creating a life that reflects your values. You don’t have to wait to be fearless or flawless to start. You just have to begin.
Want more support? Download my free Wellness Journal at ResetwithTrish.com—a tool to help you reset your mindset, track small wins, and live in alignment with your values.
Let the power of optimism be your reset. Let’s chase the bright side—together.
RESOURCES
U Positive Jon Gordon Podcast | Jess Ekstrom | Chasing the Bright Side Nov 16, 2019
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