Icelandic Provisions announced the release of its report, "Bowl Half Full: A Report on Optimism, Nutrition & Wellness in 2024." 

The inaugural study, conducted in partnership with Dr. Deepika Chopra, a behavioral scientist better known as "The Optimism Doctor" and founder of the Things Are Looking Up brand, and Wakefield Research, delves into Americans' personal perspectives on their optimism, well-being, and healthy habits, and provides a state-by-state ranking of Optimism Index Scores across the country.

"As Americans seek ways to navigate daily challenges, they are increasingly recognizing the vital role healthy habits and nutrient-rich food have in supporting their overall emotional well-being," said Dr. Chopra. "The results of this survey highlight this very connection and is why I was so excited to partner with Icelandic Provisions on this research that allows me to support and continue advocating for how incorporating small healthy habits can play a crucial role in fostering optimism and a resilient spirit."

Mark Alexander, CEO of Icelandic Provisions, shared, "Our 'Bowl Half Full' report illustrates the transformative potential of the Nordic lifestyle, where optimism, resilience, and well-being are intrinsically linked. This study, which we're thrilled to have partnered with experts, Wakefield Research and Dr. Chopra, reveals how adopting some of these time-honored principles and incorporating healthy changes can empower Americans to foster a more positive outlook and tackle personal obstacles with increased confidence."

Surveying 5,000 Americans across the United States, the report reveals that even in the face of adversity, Americans maintain a remarkable sense of personal optimism with the National Optimism Index Score standing at a promising 6.7*. The report dives deeper into what could be the secret sauce to optimism: daily practices and healthy habits. Turns out, people who embrace outdoor adventures, savor nutritious breakfasts like a bowl of skyr, and stick to regular exercise routines are not just healthier, they also have a more positive outlook - with those engaging in these activities scoring up to a 7.2 on the Optimism Index.

• The Most Optimistic States: Wyoming leads the way as the most optimistic state with an Optimism Index Score of 7.2. California (7.1), New Jersey (7.1), Alabama (7.0), and Maryland (7.0) round out the top five. 
  • Driving this positive outlook? In Wyoming, 82% of residents wake up ready to own the day compared to 62% of Americans, and 98% of residents are willing to retry failed projects compared to 90% of Americans. California is all about healthy habits with 43% feeling well-rested compared to just 35% of Americans, and 81% starting their day with a nutritious breakfast when they have time or as often as they want compared to 62% of Americans. New Jersey's high optimism is attributed to a strong focus on physical health, with 45% of residents feeling they get enough exercise, compared to just a third of Americans.
• Generational Outlook: Baby Boomers are rocking the optimism leaderboard with an Optimism Index Score of 7.1, followed by Millennials (6.7), Gen X (6.5), and Gen Z (6.4).
  • Only 9% of Boomers let daily annoyances get under their skin, compared to Gen Z (34%), Millennials (29%), and Gen X (28%), and 71% of Boomers kick off their day with a positive mindset, more than Gen X (61%), Millennials (57%), and Gen Z (51%).

The Optimism Equation 

• Positive Outlook - Optimism is an attitude that can be honed with intentional mindset shifts:

• • 92% of respondents are confident in their ability to positively shape their future.
  • An impressive 82% of Americans brush off setbacks as mere speed bumps, while 96% are all about the power of sticking it out and pushing through.
  • Over two-thirds (69%) of the most optimistic are less bothered by daily frustrations, facing them less than once a week.
  • Over 4 in 5 (82%) view setbacks as temporary, and 96% are firm believers in the power of perseverance as the key to overcoming challenges.
• Healthy Habits - Incorporating positive, daily habits to your life can help shift one's outlook:

• • It's not just what you eat, it's when - and what! Americans that start their day with a healthy breakfast 3 times a week or more had higher optimism rankings (7.2) than those who do so twice a week or less (5.9).
  • More than half of Americans (56%) consume probiotic foods weekly or more. Millennials (63%) are especially fond, and feast on foods such as yogurt, skyr, and sauerkraut at least every week.
  • Nearly all Americans (98%) have their go-to mood boosters, with 71% jamming out to their favorite tunes and 59% getting their groove on outside to lift their spirits.
  • The majority (52%) spend an hour or more a day outside, taking in the fresh air and sunshine - with a strong majority (77%) exercising weekly or more.
    To help deliver a spoonful of Icelandic-style optimism to fans everywhere where it's needed most, Icelandic Provisions is offering a special giveaway starting today. Five lucky fans will each get the opportunity to win $1,000 to use towards stocking their fridge with Icelandic Provisions skyr and other nutritious foods.