Hope Isn't Optimism — It's a Practice

In this episode, we're talking about hope — what it really is, why it matters, and how to strengthen it in your everyday life. Drawing from Hope Rising by Chan Hellman and Casey Gwinn, this episode breaks down the three elements of hope — goals, pathways (waypower), and agency (willpower) — and explores how hope is not just optimism, but a practice. A choice. A protective factor that can transform your mental health, relationships, work, and overall well-being. You'll hear a personal story and receive practical encouragement for how to build your own hope levels — even when circumstances haven't changed yet. Because hope isn't about pretending life is easy. It's about saying, "This is hard… and I'm still here." If you've been feeling tired, discouraged, or in transition, this episode will remind you that hope doesn't have to be loud to be powerful — and sometimes, letting hope be enough for today is more than enough. 💜❤️ KEY TAKEAWAYS Goals Waypower and Pathways Willpower and Agency BEST MOMENTS You can get there from here. –Rick Snyder Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all the darkness. –Bishop Desmond Tutu Hope is something we create. –Naomi Drew It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men. –Frederick Douglass VALUABLE RESOURCES If you're struggling in a relationship and wondering if it might be controlling, you're not alone. Download my free guide at locatecoaching.com/freegift to help you find clarity and confidence. EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT Check out other episodes of Life After: From Surviving to Thriving: https://sites.libsyn.com/460833/site ABOUT THE HOST Jill McKnight is a mindset coach and speaker as well as an Erickson Professional Certified Coach. She specializes in supporting those who are rebuilding their lives and finding their most aligned path forward. Jill knows that the tips and tricks in each episode work – because she's used them to change her life and her clients have used them to change their lives! Jill has the education and life experience to help you rebuild your life, whatever the circumstances… and move from surviving to thriving! Through her talks, events, programs, and podcast "Life After: From Surviving to Thriving", Jill provides her clients with a unique mix of thoughtful guidance and sincere care. She lives in a small town in Washington with her son and is committed to co-create a world with more hope, connection, and healing for us all. CONNECT & CONTACT TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@locatecoaching IG: https://www.instagram.com/locatecoaching/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwEImRGJXX4hrdS_NM3wWXg Email: [email protected]