The middle of every successful project looks like a disaster.

Too many people let others stand in their way and don't go back for one more try.

The positive outlook that optimists project does not come from ignoring or denying problems. Optimists simply assume that problems are temporary and can be solved, so optimists naturally want more information about problems because then they can get to work and do something. Pessimists are more likely to believe that there is nothing they can do anyway, so what's the point of even thinking about it?

A self-reinforcing upward spiral: performance stimulating pride stimulating performance.

Confidence isn't optimism or pessimism, and it's not a character attribute. It's the expectation of a positive outcome.

In the most innovative companies there is a significantly higher volume of thank yous than in companies of low innovation.

A great idea is not enough.