Optimism is
not a feeling.
It’s a behavior.
Michelle Gielan is a positive psychology researcher, former national CBS News anchor, and bestselling author whose research shows how resilient optimism becomes a measurable performance advantage under pressure.
A new book from Harvard Business Review Press, September 2026.
Resilient Optimism
The Science of Sustaining a Positive Mindset in Tough Times
Grounded in research, Resilient Optimism shows how optimism becomes a trainable advantage. Through science, real life stories, and practical tools, Michelle demonstrates how resilient optimism helps leaders and teams stay clear, energized, and adaptable when the pressure is highest.
Bring Michelle in to Speak
Michelle’s keynotes blend rigorous research, memorable stories, and interactive experiments that show audiences how resilient optimism becomes a measurable performance advantage.
Participants leave with practical tools they can use immediately to think more clearly, lead more effectively, and perform at their best under pressure.
What Leaders Are Saying
Oprah
“Michelle Gielan is carving out new territory in how positive thinking is literally changing the trajectory of our lives.”
“Michelle Gielan is a gifted storyteller, and she shares powerful science and practical insights for improving the world around us.”
Arianna Huffington
“Michelle Gielan is one of the brightest stars in positive psychology and an eloquent champion for rethinking the way we communicate.”
Savannah Guthrie
“Michelle Gielan is a world-renowned happiness researcher.”
Resilient optimism is the greatest performance advantage of our time.
What we pay attention to shapes our potential
Drawing on more than fifteen years of research, Michelle helps leaders and organizations turn scientific insights into practical behaviors that strengthen resilience and unlock better results.
Whether on stage or through her writing, Michelle’s mission is simple: help people build resilient optimism so they can perform at their best when it matters most.
See the research come to life
The Today Show
Shawn Achor and Michelle Gielan on simple, science-backed habits for more resilience day to day.
The Today Show
Why social connection is one of the strongest predictors of well-being — and how to strengthen it.
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