Definition
A direction towards a possible future that supports action without ensuring that the desired outcome will come.
Lucid hope recognizes obstacles and seeks ways of action. It is distinguished from denial, which refuses facts, and from promise, which claims to know the future.
To be retained
- Name what remains possible
- Imagine multiple paths
- Acting on an accessible scale
- Accept uncertainty of outcome
Origin of the term and context
Hope comes from the Latin Spear, "hope." In Christian theology, it is a virtue; in the common language, it is approaching hope while often suggesting a more lasting orientation.
Why does it matter?
Psychology distinguishes between goals, ways and feelings of being able to act. Hope can support commitment, but it is not enough when material resources or care are needed.
- Name what remains possible
- Imagine multiple paths
- Acting on an accessible scale
- Accept uncertainty of outcome
How can it be explored or practised?
- Write a realistic goal for the week
- Provide an alternative route
- Seeking support from a person
- Transforming an anxiety into a tiny action
Misconceptions and points of caution
- Hope does not guarantee healing.
- She must not blame discouraged people.
- Realism is not pessimism.
Perspectives from different traditions
- Christianity: Theological hope for God.
- Judaism: expectation, memory and responsibility in history.
- Psychology: goals, possible pathways and ability to act.
To go further
- The Theology of Hope — Jürgen Moltmann
- The Psychology of Hope — C. R. Snyder