This doesn't mean we stick our heads in the sand. It means that we study the news and learn what is going on. Know the truth. Know what is happening and in the midst of that, remain doggedly optimistic. Medical science is showing us daily how optimism contributes to a longer, healthier lifestyle.
Optimism also reflects on bottom-line business profit.
People are more motivated to work for and with a company where cheerfulness and optimism reign in the midst of reality. The most sanguine of Y2K predictions turned out to be short of what actually happened. A positive outlook, focused squarely on reality, will always win. Plan for known obstacles and how you can succeed in spite of them. Realistically examine what could possibly go wrong.