How to become more resilient and cope better 145 Optimists accept reality better, and perhaps because they are more delusional about their ability to affect their environment they are more positively emotionally engaged so that they are better able to problem solve. They see things in a positive way, look to others for support, find meaning in the situation and are prepared to learn. Pessimists, on the other hand, tend to hide from reality, despite assessing the situation accurately, and are more likely to disengage emotionally and use avoidance strategies. Emotional coping strategies When things get tough our emotions go into overdrive, and people who are able to handle their emotions in adversity are more likely to fare better.