Optimism is a defining characteristic of successful people and it can be learned, according to American psychologist Martin Seligman. One way to help keep you looking on the bright side is to remember three habits of optimists:

> when negative events occur, remember that they are temporary, not permanent;

> always see setbacks as isolated events rather than as part of a larger pattern;

> don’t blame yourself — assign at least part of the responsibility for setbacks to events beyond your control.