Along with gratitude, self-confidence is the other necessary foundation for optimism. According to psychologist Nathaniel Branden, "Of all the judgments we make in life, none is more important than the one we make about ourselves." Self-confidence is an assessment of our basic worth. It is a predisposition to see ourselves as capable of meeting life's many challenges. It is the belief that we can and should be happy.

If we have self-confidence, we move forward toward our goals; without it, we retreat into denial, excuses and fear. When we lack self-confidence, our thoughts and actions are rarely based in reality. When we have self-confidence, we act in ways that benefit us, which in turn increases our self-esteem and optimism.

We can choose how we think about ourselves. As an adult, you can rid your brain of the negativity that has been holding you back. You have the ability to feel better about yourself and your future. It all depends on the choices you make.