Hope Research Project
The purpose of our research is to deepen our understanding of hope so that we can inspire and generate more hope in the world. We believe that having hope is fundamental, the starting place, for building a better world. Without hope, this is no inspiration, no innovation, no imagination to create a better future. Without that, there is no energy and no courage to take positive action. Data was collected January 2023-December2024.
Early Insights: Where respondents saw signs of Hope in the World today
1. Hope in the Next Generation. Many participants find deep hope in the values, courage, and perspective of younger generations. Their willingness to challenge norms, advocate for justice, and demand accountability signals a more promising future. 2. Collective Action and Community Resilience. Participants draw hope from people coming together—across generations, backgrounds, and causes—to create change. Whether through activism, pandemic response, or local problem-solving, collective effort is seen as a powerful force. 3. Everyday Humanity and Small Acts of Goodness. Amid large-scale challenges, hope is often sustained through everyday moments—smiles from strangers, authentic conversations, or small acts of kindness. These reminders of shared humanity offer profound encouragement.
Early Insights: How respondents sustain Hope for themselves:
1. Daily Practices that Anchor Hope. Intentional routines like mindfulness, gratitude, and reflection are essential tools for staying grounded and hopeful. These small, consistent acts help reframe negativity and cultivate emotional resilience. 2. Connection as a Source of Strength. Meaningful connections with friends, family, and community offer both comfort and perspective. Feeling seen, heard, and valued—especially during hard times—helps people sustain and share hope. 3. Hope in Action and Mindset Shifts. Hope is fueled by agency—the belief that taking even small actions can shift outcomes. Many also describe the importance of consciously reframing challenges and choosing optimism over fear.
Early Insights: How respondents engage or inspire others to be hopeful:
1.Modeling Hope Through Daily Actions and Presence. Many participants emphasize the importance of being hope—demonstrating it through calm demeanor, optimism, energy, and authenticity. Modeling hope invites others to believe it’s possible, especially when done consistently during moments of doubt, change, or stress. 2. Creating Space for Honest Conversation and Empathetic Listening. Hope is fostered when people are given safe space to express doubts, fears, or struggles without being forced into optimism. Simply listening, being present, and asking compassionate questions are powerful ways to invite hope into a conversation. 3. Sharing Hopeful Narratives and Encouraging Positive Focus. Participants engage others in hope by offering stories, headlines, or reframes that center possibility rather than despair. From podcasts to workshops to social media, they create or amplify hopeful narratives that can influence others' mindsets.
Where we go from here
We will explore the data further to uncover even more valuable insights. Our key findings will be shared through various channels, including a book. Stay updated on progress by following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook.