A welcome thread for new readers (and longtime lurkers)

I'm looking at you. Yes—you. Come say hi!

Hi, fellow optimist-in-progress,

If you’ve just landed here—hello! I’m so glad you found your way to this little corner of the internet.

This is a space for anxious try-hards, recovering pessimists, and anyone learning to practise hope without pretending everything’s fine. I’m Emma—a mid-thirties memoirist doing her best to cultivate courage and hope. Attempts at Optimism is a weekly dispatch designed to keep you (and maybe me) from the perils of pessimism. Positivity optional. Honesty guaranteed.

Now, I’d love to hear about you!

Whether you’re a new reader or someone who’s been quietly following for a while, come say hi in the comments.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• What brought you to Substack? (And where are you reading from?)

• What’s something you’re currently trying to do—big or small?

• Would you call yourself an optimist by nature, or more of a hopeful work-in-progress?

• Not sure what to say? Just tell us your favourite ice cream flavour. Or your dog’s name. Or the last thing you tried that didn’t totally work out, but you’re proud of anyway.

This thread will stay open, so feel free to pop in anytime and introduce yourself. I read every comment and love hearing from you.

Oh, and don’t forget to tap the 🩷 button on your way out.

(Unhearted posts are terribly draughty.)

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