Optimism
As the nurse leader faces adversity with a sense of calmness, the next step in building resilience is to view the situation or crisis with positivity and optimism. The transformational nurse leader carries a high amount of positive psychological capital (PsyCap) within him- or herself.12 This construct symbolizes a person's proclivity to remain on task and be motivated toward reaching goals. In order to embody PsyCap as a leader, one must have hope and remain optimistic in life.12 PsyCap allows a person to move forward with optimism, which, therefore, can be thought of as central to the foundational element of nurse leader resiliency. The PsyCap model is similar in thought to the conceptual triad model proposed; however, it doesn't include the concept of equanimity and isn't necessarily thought of as a linear process.The Theory of Attribution defines optimism as “a goal-based, cognitive process that operates whenever an outcome is perceived as having substantial value.”13 When a person is optimistic, he or she is able to view difficult times as a challenge and have hope that things will turn out for the best. Situations are viewed as external and caused for specific reasons.14 Alternatively, pessimism tends to create negativity because situations and potential outcomes are viewed as unfavorable with universal origins. The literature shows that individuals who are optimistic are more apt to be healthier and have a greater life expectancy than their pessimistic counterparts.15Just as optimism builds upon itself, so does cynicism, which proliferates a cyclic evolution of negative interpretations followed by lack of progress toward goals.16 The nurse leader faces difficult situations and multiplying responsibilities everyday. In order for leaders to be successful, effective, and able to cope positively, they need to remain optimistic in the face of adversity. Although it can be detrimental to be overly optimistic, such as when situations aren't assessed to the full extent of clarity and reality is distorted, a positive outlook that's constructive and healthy can have a positive impact on self-efficacy and self-esteem.17 Not all individuals move toward optimism naturally. However, optimism can be learned, developed, and successfully role-modeled when one applies effort and fortitude.