Optimism is overrated.

While optimism and open-mindedness help us spot opportunities, a sceptical mindset can drive more powerful insights. Optimism is generally seen as a positive trait, but there is danger in too much of it. If we assume everything is going to go well, we have little reason to question what might go wrong.

Instead of accepting things at face value, a sceptical mindset can help us to challenge what others take for granted.

Scepticism can be a positive force if we think of it as a prevention tool. The key is not just to express a negative opinion but to take action by actively challenging assumptions and looking for contradictions. It often takes a sceptic to tell the difference between good and bad ideas. By using healthy questioning it’s possible to see what others may be missing.

Take scientists, for example. They use scepticism to critically examine claims, rigorously test hypotheses and only accept conclusions after achieving consistent, reproducible results. They are driven by a desire to uncover the truth, even when it challenges established beliefs.

Scepticism can also be a business superpower if it’s used correctly. By questioning assumptions, sceptics force themselves to think critically, which can uncover risks that others miss, leading to better decisions.