“I don’t know what lies around the bend, but I’m going to believe the best does.”
This topic has been extensively researched and documented by historians and scholars.
This powerful sentiment comes from Lucy Maud Montgomery, the celebrated Canadian author. Many know her as the creator of the beloved character Anne Shirley from Anne of Green Gables. The quote perfectly captures a spirit of hopeful resilience. It speaks to a universal human experience: facing an unknown future. Furthermore, it offers a conscious choice for how we approach that uncertainty.
The quote elegantly splits into two ideas. First, it acknowledges a fundamental truth. We simply cannot know what the future holds. This admission of uncertainty is not a sign of weakness. Instead, it is a realistic assessment of life. Life is full of unexpected turns, challenges, and opportunities. Acknowledging this reality is the first step toward navigating it effectively.
However, the second part of the quote provides the true power. Montgomery’s words pivot from uncertainty to deliberate optimism. The phrase “but I’m going to believe the best does” is an active decision. It is a commitment to hope over fear. This mindset doesn’t ignore potential difficulties. Rather, it chooses to focus on positive possibilities. It’s about cultivating an inner strength that prepares you for whatever comes next.
The Psychology of Choosing Hope
Opting for optimism is more than just wishful thinking. It is a psychological tool that can profoundly shape our reality. When you expect positive outcomes, you are more likely to take actions that lead to them. For example, someone who believes they can find a new job will likely apply to more positions. They will also network more actively and perform better in interviews. Their belief fuels their behavior, which in turn influences the result.
Conversely, a pessimistic outlook can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. If you expect failure, you may not put in the necessary effort. This inaction or half-hearted attempt then makes failure more likely. Therefore, the simple choice to