Frenship’s Mental Health Minute includes a monthly theme and challenge. The theme of January is centered around Optimism. The idea for this theme is that students and Frenship Families will focus on fostering a positive mindset by setting intentional goals and developing actionable steps to work toward achieving them. 

This month, students will be challenged to think of three goals for themselves this semester. Then, they are challenged to take one of those goals and lay out a plan to help them achieve it.  

Frenship Families are encouraged to think of three goals to accomplish together as a family this year. After that they are challenged to pick one goal and create a step-by-step plan as a family to achieve it.  

Ridgewood Counselor Qualimetra Chapman believes that optimism greatly impacts how students and families see the world around them, even during challenging times or unexpected setbacks. 

“Optimism is all about looking for the bright side of situations and trusting that something good can and will happen, no matter how difficult things are in the moment,” said Chapman. “If practiced regularly, it helps us live happier lives and grow in perseverance because we’re conditioned to keep trying, even when surprises cause things not to go as planned.” 

Chapman emphasizes the importance of embracing optimism, highlighting its role in helping students develop resilience and maintain a positive outlook on life, which directly influences their overall well-being and mental health. 

“Optimism is important because it allows students to see setbacks as temporary—something they can bounce back from. Being optimistic leads to a happier and healthier life, and when students are happier overall, it directly supports their mental health,” said Chapman.  

Creating goals and developing a clear plan to follow through on them provides direction, builds motivation, and helps cultivate perseverance. 

“Goal setting is about breaking down a larger purpose into attainable steps. Achieving these small goals builds confidence and gives students a sense of pride in themselves. It also shows them that progress is possible, even when things feel tough at first,” said Chapman.  

When students are working on long-term goals, it's normal to feel discouraged at times. Chapman offers some strategies that can help students push through those tough moments and stay focused on their purpose. 

“When I feel discouraged, I remind myself of my ‘why.’ I think about why I’m working so hard and how that purpose is more important than the moment of difficulty. I also take breaks when I need them. There’s no rule that says we have to accomplish our goals in a specific order, so if you need a break, take it,” said Chapman.  

Chapman also suggests using creative tools like vision boards to stay focused and motivated when working on long-term goals. These visual reminders can be powerful in keeping students connected to their aspirations.  

“Another great strategy is creating vision boards. I encourage students to make them because they provide visual reminders of their goals and help keep their motivation alive,” said Chapman.  

Chapman wants to encourage students and families to recognize and appreciate the small victories and remind themselves that difficult moments are only temporary.

“Celebrate the small wins! As mentioned earlier, progress is a big deal, so if you’re struggling to stay optimistic, focus on gratitude for the progress you’ve made and celebrate it. Also, remember that tough situations are temporary. Take things one day at a time—or if that feels too hard, one breath at a time,” said Chapman.  

One way that parents and guardians can support their students this month to complete the family challenge is to start by modeling positivity in the everyday moments. Chapman suggests making the most of situations by demonstrating optimism in both small and significant actions. 

“One way that families can encourage their children to complete the family challenge is by modeling how to practice optimism. When parents or guardians show a positive attitude in their own actions, children are more likely to follow their lead,” said Chapman. “For example, if a parent is stuck in the pick-up or drop-off line, they can say something like, ‘This gives us more time to listen to music or talk.’ By finding the good in a frustrating moment, parents teach their children that optimism is about focusing on solutions and positives rather than problems.” 

The Frenship Counseling Department believes that optimism is a powerful tool that can help students and families navigate challenges with resilience and hope. By setting goals, practicing gratitude, and focusing on the positive, individuals can cultivate a mindset that promotes growth and perseverance. Whether through modeling positivity in everyday moments or creating vision boards to stay motivated, these strategies encourage a supportive and optimistic environment for success.  

For more information on Frenship’s Mental Health Minute, click here.