Among optimism , pessimism , and realism, I discuss realism as an effective means of achieving the most positive results . ” Bob Knight . Bob Knight is one of the most prominent coaches of all time; he established the realistic method of negative thinking , and proved that it can achieve positive and effective results compared to unrealistic optimism . He then demonstrated his position by comparing two famous methods of thinking, pure positive thinking , and the realistic thinking that he adopts . For example, the book “ The Power of Positive Thinking ” by “ Norman Vincent Peale” is one of the best- selling classic books ; it inspired millions around the world with an optimistic approach to thinking , and this is the first method . In this book; “ The Power of Negative Thinking ” in an exciting and inspiring way , Bob Knight refutes this idea, as the legendary basketball coach Knight explains why “ negative thinking ” achieves its positive results.