“Hope is the belief that your future can be brighter and better than your past and that you actually have a role to play in making it better.” -Gwinn & Hellman, Hope Rising
In today’s world, it seems like we are one wild fire, contentious political election, or pandemic away from total disaster. These factors, together with economic inequity and social injustice, have plunged America into a crisis of hope. In 2024 more than 23% of adults reported facing mental health challenges. It’s tempting to believe we are doomed. That only a superhero can save us and our planet. Great news: we ordinary folk possess this power. By embracing hope-centered living, we can combat despair, overcome dark forces and build a brighter future. This approach is already transforming lives across America, thanks to the work of Casey Gwinn and Chan Hellman.
What Is Hope?
Hope isn’t an abstract concept: it has real, measurable benefits. In their book, Hope Rising: Howthe Science of Hope Can Change Your Life, Gwinn and Hellman explore the powerful effects of hope centered living. The Hope Research Center at the University of Oklahoma has amassed over 2,000 studies showing how hope can improve everything from academic and sports performance to health outcomes and trauma recovery. We do not need a superhero; we need more hope-centered people. As Gwinn and Hellman profess, hope begets hope. It starts local and grows global.
The Three-Legged Stool
Because hope is a science, we can learn and apply its principles. The framework is as simple as a three-legged stool:
- Agency: The belief you can achieve goals; willpower.
- Goals: Specific, measurable outcomes towards which agency is directed.
- Pathways: Routes to achieve goals; a flexible mindset; way power.
As the opening quote says, hope-centered living is belief plus action. Wishing for a better future is futile; one must take practical steps toward it.
Every child, teen and adult has the potential to be what Gwinn and Hellman call a “hope hero.” Unlike a superhero, a hope hero’s mission is not to fly solo, but to fly in formation like a flock of geese.Jonas Salk, the scientist credited with developing the polio vaccine, was a hope hero. In 1955, after eight years of research, the vaccine created by Salk and his colleagues began saving millions of lives. Despite success, Salk faced some criticism and never won a Nobel Prize. Yet, Salk continued his mission, founding the Salk Institute and contributing to AIDS research. “Hope,” Salk said, “lies in dreams, in imagination, and in the courage of those who dare to make dreams into reality.” A hope hero like Salk embodies creativity, courage and dedication in pursuit of his goals that enhance the greater good.
Hope’s Superpower
At the heart of hope lies one of humanity’s greatest gifts: imagination. This is what Gwinn and Hellman call the “instrument” of hope, and it is our superpower. As the White Queen from Alice Throughthe Looking Glass says, “Why, sometimes I’ve believed asmany as six impossible things before breakfast.” Instruments are meant to be played, she reminds us, and there is no limit to this resource. It is free, innate and wild. Imagination, must, however, be directed toward positive goals. Personal happiness that ignores collective well-being isn’t hope-centered. As hope heroes, we employ our gifts to create a future where everyone can thrive.
Key Takeaways
In our current landscape, it can be difficult to be hopeful. While negative news collides with real life disasters that feed on our anxieties, hope science offers practical, transformative tools for improving lives and saving our precious planet. Here are four key takeaways to remember:
- Hope is teachable. Children and adults can learn hope strategies, despite adversity.
- Hope is contagious: Hope heroes are pathways who teach by example.
- Hope is transformative: The research shows people who adopt a hope mindset and strategies are change agents.
- Hope is accessible: The tools are simply and adaptable for all ages and abilities.
The beauty of Hope Science is it is built on generosity and easy to share.
A Remarkable Future
It is tempting to wish for a superhero in these difficult times. We must, however, trust that we have the collective power to save humanity and the planet. Like Tolkien’s hope heroes, Frodo and Sam in Lord of the Rings, we are equipped with the necessary tools to defeat darkness. As Dr. Joseph Bellezzo said, “Hope is the bridge between the impossible and the possible.” On the other side of darkness is a remarkable future. If only we can imagine it!
With a hope-filled heart, Christin
Next Steps
Take: Adult Hope Assessment Online
Watch: TED Talk by Chan Hellman titled “The Science and Power of Hope”
Read or Listen: Gwinn and Hellman’s book Hope Rising: How the Science of Hope Can Change Your Life.
References:
Gwinn, C., & Hellman, C. M. (2022). Hope rising: How the science of hope can change your life. Morgan James Publishing.
Mental Health America. Prevalence of Mental Illness 2024. Retrieved February 5, 2025.
Jonas Salk Biography - Academy of Achievement. (June 7, 2023). Retrieved February 5, 2025
About the Author: Christin is an Integrative Mental Health and Coach certified by the Nickerson Institute. Root & Wick Coaching, her trauma-informed and hope-centered practice, will launch in March 2025. As a 30 yr veteran of traditional mental health care for complex PTSD and affective disorders, she is aware of its advantages and shortcomings. Her recent discovery of Hope Science has transformed her life in ways she never imagined. She is eager to share her message of hope and equip clients with the tools to build their own remarkable futures and save our beautiful blue planet.
