The way we think can shape the way we feel, and optimism is one of those habits that can lift us during difficult times. It’s not ignoring challenges or pretending everything is fine. Instead, it’s the belief that setbacks are temporary and that effort still matters. This kind of mindset can be built over time through self-awareness and practice.
The Optimism Worksheets include two engaging worksheets. The Practicing Optimism worksheet invites clients to identify optimistic mindsets, rate themselves, and identify their strengths. The Transforming Thoughts: Building Optimism worksheet focuses on rewriting pessimistic thoughts.
After kids work through these worksheets, they can begin to notice how their thoughts influence their emotional responses. With practice, these simple shifts in thinking can turn into lasting habits.
These worksheets can be used alongside our All About Optimism handout for a more thorough lesson on the topic.
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Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of Character Education worksheets.
References:
- Bulloch, E. C. (2011). Examining predictors of optimism in adolescence: Internal and external factors (Publication No. 2964) [Master’s thesis, Brigham Young University]. BYU ScholarsArchive. https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/etd/2964
- Fairbank, E. J., Borenstein-Laurie, J., Alberts, N. M., & Wrosch, C. (2024). Optimism, pessimism, and physical health among youth: A scoping review. Journal of Pediatric Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1093/jpepsy/jsae045
- Kennes, A., Peeters, S., Janssens, M., Reijnders, J., Simons, M., Lataster, J., & Jacobs, N. (2021). Optimism and mental health in adolescence: A prospective validation study of the Dutch life-orientation test-revised (LOT-R-A) for adolescents. Psychologica Belgica, 61(1), 104-115. https://doi.org/10.5334/pb.799
