Feeling Wheel
What feeling optimistic is like
Optimism is a general sense that things will work out. It doesn't mean ignoring problems. You expect to find a way through them.
Optimistic or hopeful?
Optimistic is a confident expectation. Hopeful is wanting something and believing it's possible, even if you're less sure of it. Read more about feeling hopeful.
Finding optimistic on the feelings wheel
On the Feeling Wheel, optimistic sits in the Joyful group. Start in the middle of the wheel with joyful, then move outwards to optimistic. If it's close but not quite right, the other joyful words below may fit better. It's also normal to feel more than one thing at once.
Other words in the Joyful group
Joyful words cover the bright, energised end of the wheel, from quiet hope to full-on elation.
- Elated Feeling extremely happy and excited
- Jubilant Feeling triumphant and full of joy
- Playful Feeling lighthearted and fun
- Ecstatic Feeling overwhelming happiness and delight
- Excited Feeling enthusiastic and energised
- Hopeful Feeling optimistic about the future
- Eager Looking forward to something with enthusiasm
- Courageous Feeling brave and ready to face difficulty or pain
- Nourished Feeling emotionally supported and strengthened
- Inspired Feeling motivated to create or act meaningfully
- Vindicated Feeling justified or rewarded for actions
- Amused Finding something entertaining or funny
- Amazed Feeling wonder and amazement
Name what you're feeling
Feeling Wheel puts all 118 of these words on one wheel. Tap the ones that fit, add a note if you like, and see your patterns over time. Free on iPhone and Android.