Romer: Why I choose optimism
People sometimes ask how I stay optimistic with everything going on in the world and our local community. It’s a fair question. There’s no shortage of uncertainty, complexity or challenges these days. But for me, optimism isn’t about ignoring reality — it’s about choosing to focus on what’s still good and what’s still possible.
I believe optimism is more than a mindset. It’s a responsibility, especially in community leadership. When we lead with hope, we make space for others to do the same.
So why am I still optimistic? Because I see reasons every day.
History shows us that progress is possible. We’ve lived through wars, recessions and pandemics — and yet we’ve always moved forward. Scientific breakthroughs, social movements and innovation have helped us make the world better, step by step. That reminds me that today’s problems are solvable, too.
But I don’t need to look far back to feel hopeful. I just have to look around our community.
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Here in the Vail Valley, I see people showing up for one another. Neighbors helping neighbors. Volunteers give their time without fanfare. Local organizations work together to support those in need. It’s not always flashy, but it’s authentic, and it makes a difference.
Young people give me hope. Whether it’s high school students, college leaders or young entrepreneurs, they’re jumping in with urgency and creativity. Their energy is contagious, and their leadership is inspiring. They aren’t waiting for their turn; instead, they’re already shaping the future.
We’re also more resilient than we give ourselves credit for. I’ve seen firsthand how our community bounces back from wildfires, economic challenges, and even a global pandemic. Setbacks are real, but so is our ability to adapt, recover and grow.
Progress is happening even if it doesn’t always make the headlines. Renewable energy is expanding. Mental health is finally being talked about, and we’re taking real steps to address it. Workforce housing and early childhood facilities are taking shape throughout the valley. These are signs of momentum — and they’re worth celebrating.
What ties all this together — and what keeps me most optimistic — is collaboration. I’ve seen what happens when businesses, nonprofits, governments and everyday people come together to solve problems. Real solutions emerge when we bring different voices to the table and focus on shared goals instead of silos.
I’m also inspired by personal stories. People overcoming addiction. Starting over after a setback. Launching a business after being told “no.” These stories remind me that change is always possible, even when it’s hard.
Nature offers that reminder, too. After a fire, the forest grows back. After a long winter, the rivers run again. Nature teaches us that healing and renewal take time, but they’re always possible.
And then there’s art, music and creativity: those quiet reminders of what connects us. Whether it’s a painting in a local gallery, a concert at the Vilar or Ford Amphitheater, or a good story shared with a friend, creative expression brings people together and lifts us.
My optimism isn’t blind. It’s grounded in what I see every day in our history, in our community, in individual resilience, and in our shared ability to do better. It’s not about pretending everything’s fine. It’s about believing we can make things better if we work together to make it so.
So, let’s keep choosing hope. Let’s stay focused on what’s working and build on it. Let’s move forward — together.
Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, a 3-time national chamber of the year. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com
