434. Realism Vs Optimism

In a sense, optimism is the opposite to realism. Realism is a useful mind-set when making some decisions such as setting out your budgets, but don't fall into the trap of using this mode of thinking for all situations. It can lead you to pessimism and depression.

430. Optimism

Be optimistic rather than pessimistic. Optimists achieve more and live longer. Optimists are better liked and tend to have better relationships.

77. Optimism

Always be optimistic. No matter how much you learn and know, you will never learn enough to be pessimistic.

14. Attitude vs Conscience

Do not worry so much about examining your conscience as about examining your attitude. Conscience is about guilt which is a destructive, corrosive emotion. Attitude is about how you think about people things and situations. It is about what you say about them. Because "Your attitude determines your altitude.", it is important that you remain upbeat, positive, optimistic and that you operate from a place of good will to all, assuming the best in others unless you are proven wrong. Marcus Aurelius once said : "A person's life is what his thoughts make of it."
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/m/marcus_aurelius.html