Yes, but the optimistic mindset would probably have a better outcome than the latter regardless if they failed to meet their original expectations or not.
It seems we should need objective data to filter through the bias.
I can collect enough pennies to have a million dollars too. What do you trade for that and how likely is it that you will have the resources to live it out? His living expenses are put at 0 with a network of whatever his salary was. No rent, no car, default employer health insurance, 600/mo to eat ramen and cover utils, no kids, etc.
> There's research supporting the optimist strategy
The statistical evidence supports the pessimist strategy. In theory, theory and practice they are the same...
These blogposts feel like clickbait to troll. It inevitably leads to people arguing past each other with the predictable outcome of neither being wholly right, but the optimists blowing sunshine like it's a useful fairy dust and the premise remains laughably unrealistic, regardless. I know plenty of dirt poor optimists.
I think many pessimistic people don't start or give up earlier and this leads to the self fulfilling prophecy.
Could be wrong, objective data would be needed for sure.