Those early explorers, inventors, artists, and leaders credited with advancing civilization had one thing in common. They focused on the final objective without deviation (going forward). 

Obsessed with improving the human condition, they ignored the many who were arrogant, cynical, and small minded.

The comfortable life we often take for granted today, is completely indebted to those who saw the big picture, and were able to trudge through the muck of negativity. Nothing good ever came from pessimism.

Thinking forward pays off.