Mindset Monday - Delusional Optimism
“Part of being optimistic is keeping ones head pointed toward the sun, ones feet moving forward” – Nelson Mandela
With the headwinds that we have been facing, it can be challenging at times to remain optimistic. It’s easy to be optimistic when you are winning, and things are going your way. When the water gets deeper is when it counts. Optimism isn’t always going to hang around, and be readily available. Finding it and keeping it is a discipline, its work, its constantly searching for perspective. Optimism can be like any other habit, repetition, consistent work, and application make it hard to shake.
I recently read a book called The Confident Mind by Dr. Nate Zinsser. In the book he has a few pages about then active all-star NFL defensive back Deion Sanders. Deion was quoted as saying that when a competing quarterback threw a pass that he believed, whole heartedly, that that pass for him. It was intended to go to him. He was the one that was meant to catch that ball. Dr. Zinsser would describe Sanders mindset as “functionally delusional”. He optimism was out there enough to be considered delusional, but focused enough to functional. That phrase stuck with me. Deion Sanders would go on to have a hall of fame career with 53 career interception and second all time in interception return yardage. Not bad for a delusional person. Maybe we need to be a little more delusional.
I took a course called Master Resiliency Training (MRT) while I was in the service. A course designed to train soldiers to help other soldiers manage their mental health. One of the lessons was to always “hunt the good stuff”. Meaning actively seek out the positive in your day/life. Tomorrow when you wake up take a moment to make a short list of the things that are going well in your life. A few bullet points. Jot them down on a piece of paper, and then take a few minutes to think about each of those things as you start your day. Set your intention on optimism and don’t be afraid to be a little delusional, your clients and partners could use a little of that these days.
Crush it today! Lets go!
Chris “Not So Functionally Delusional” Catania
Written by Chris Catania
Chris Catania entered the mortgage industry in 2005. As a seasoned Branch Manager and coach at Fairway, Chris has consistently been at the forefront of providing, creative problem solving, exceptional service and tailored financial solutions. His commitment to excellence and deep understanding of the mortgage landscape have made him a trusted advisor and a leading figure in the field.
Beyond his professional achievements, Chris is a Army veteran, devoted husband and father. He is an avid outdoorsman and hunter. Chris also brings his leadership experience and skills to the community as a coach, where he mentors individuals, teaching them the values of teamwork, discipline, accountability and perseverance. Chris Catania's blend of professional acumen, family dedication, and community involvement truly sets him apart as a respected professional and valued community member.
