How to Be Optimistic: Learning from Iceland

Optimism can sometimes feel like a distant goal, especially when life throws challenges our way or the future seems uncertain. But what if optimism isn’t about ignoring reality, but about training ourselves to see the world through what the Icelandic call bjartsýni, a “bright-sight” that focuses on clarity, light, and possibility?

Bjartsýni is a gentle yet powerful mindset embraced by the Icelandic people, who live with long, dark winters and an often unpredictable natural world. Despite these challenges, they choose to focus on the bright spots: the warmth of community, the beauty of the landscape, and the belief that even the darkest times will give way to light.

Alongside bjartsýni, there’s another Icelandic phrase that perfectly captures their hopeful outlook: “Þetta reddast,”which means “It will all work out.” This simple but profound saying is a reminder to trust the process, to believe that problems will eventually find solutions, and that things tend to resolve themselves in the end, even when it’s hard to see how.

So how can we bring a little bjartsýni and the spirit of þetta reddast into our own lives? Here are a few ways to start:

Notice the Light • Pay attention to small moments of joy or beauty each day, whether it’s a kind word, a favorite song, or sunlight streaming through the window.

Zoom Out and Gain Perspective • When faced with challenges, try to see the bigger picture. Remember that difficulties are often temporary, and life changes in unexpected ways.

Connect with Supportive People • Surround yourself with those who encourage hope and positivity, reminding you that you’re not alone.

Look Forward to Simple Joys • It doesn’t have to be grand—anticipate a walk, a comforting meal, or a quiet moment of peace.

Trust That “Þetta reddast” • Believe that things will work out, even if the path isn’t clear yet. This faith can bring calm and resilience in difficult moments.

Be Kind to Yourself • Optimism is a practice, not perfection. It’s about gently choosing to look for the light, even when it’s faint.

By embracing bjartsýni and þetta reddast, we learn to hold a brighter, clearer view of the world, alongside its challenges. It’s a hopeful way of living that helps us keep moving forward, trusting that things can and will get better.

Let's all be optimistic!

References

Wyman, J. (2023, December 5). Embracing life’s uncertainties: Exploring the Icelandic philosophy of “Þetta reddast”. Medium. https://medium.com/@jeffwyman/embracing-lifes-uncertainties-exploring-the-icelandic-philosophy-of-%C3%BEetta-reddast-f38ad012fbdb

BBC Travel. (2018, June 3). The unexpected philosophy Icelanders live by. https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20180603-the-unexpected-philosophy-icelanders-live-by