There was a wise quote, I dont remember the exact words now , but what it meant was - If you surround yourself with negative people chances are that you too become negative , whereas if you are surrounded by positive (read optimistic) people chances are that you too become positive. But more than anything we have to be realistic and not brood over too long on our misfortunes because there is no point !

Definitely. The power of negativity is much more than what people think. At the same time Optimistic people should not  be too positive in their thinking. If the belief on  optimism is " Everything  will be good " is in excess there is a danger of becoming complacent, which is the first step for Downfall. 

Optimism is a great gift. All of us are born optimists, but our life situations make us otherwise. Our circumstances control our thought patterns. Those who have strong will power or a powerful person to guide him, survive the troubles and become successful. Others fall into the traps of despair.   

That is the chief trait of an optimist. He will not succumb to the testing times. Because he's firm in his belief that one day the tides will turn in his favor. An optimist sees an opportunity in every adversity.

Optimism keeps us going.  It doesn't mean that one has to believe that every thing Is going to be great or all troubles will disappear.  It is the ability to make the best of what Is available and look for the brighter side or In spite of advesities realise that life Is worth living to the fullest and work out how best to deal with negative situation eith a positive attitude. If we are not optimistic,  life would be a pain.

Believing that everything is going to be great is a blind optimism. Real optimism is that wherein all the opportunities at hand are utilized. An optimist leaves no stone un- turned in order to reach his goals and embellish his life.