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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle

What have optimists got to be so cheerful about?

Fra Fee (Candide) and Scarlett Strallen (Cunegonde) in Candide @ Menier Chocolate Factory. Directed by Matthew White.
All is for the best in the best of all possible worlds ... a scene from Candide at the Menier Chocolate Factory. Photograph: Tristram Kenton/The Guardian Photograph: Tristram Kenton/The Guardian

According to new research, optimists may live longer. As a confirmed pessimist, I can’t say I’m surprised. But come on, apart from this news, what have the optimists got to be so cheerful about?

Gerald Andrews, Birmingham

Post your answers – and new questions – below or email them to nq@theguardian.com

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