The Optimist Philosophy


The Optimist Motto

The Optimist Creed
Promise Yourself -
  • To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
  • To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet.
  • To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
  • To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
  • To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.
  • To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
  • To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
  • To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
  • To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
  • To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

Many have found inspiration in The Optimist Creed. In hospitals, the creed has been used to help patients recover from illness. In locker rooms, coaches have used it to motivate their players.

Optimist International adopted this creed in 1922. It was originally published in 1912 in a book titled "Your Forces and How to Use Them." The author was Christian D. Larson, a prolific writer and lecturer who believed that people have tremendous latent powers, which could be harnessed for success with the proper attitude.

Purposes of the Optimist Club
  • To develop optimism as a philosophy of life;
  • To promote an active interest in good government and civic affairs;
  • To inspire respect for the law;
  • To promote patriotism and work for international accord and friendship among all people;
  • To aid and encourage the development of youth;

    In the belief that the giving of one's self in service to others will advance the well-being of man, his community, and the world.

Optimist Mission Statement
To foster an optimistic way of life for the improvement of individuals and society, through local Optimist Clubs dedicated to ever-expanding service to youth, community, and the world.

Optimist Vision Statement
Optimist International will be recognized throughout the world as the premier international organization providing opportunities for personal growth and fellowship for its members and for service to its communities.


Website by the West Bloomfield Township Public Library.
Comments? Contact the webmaster