An optimist is a person who starts a new diet on Thanksgiving Day.

The quote "An optimist is a person who starts a new diet on Thanksgiving Day" by Irv Kupcinet humorously highlights the irony of attempting to start a diet during one of the most indulgent holidays of the year. Thanksgiving is traditionally associated with large, calorie-laden meals and a focus on indulgence, making it an unusual and difficult time to commit to a new diet. Kupcinet uses this irony to poke fun at the optimism required to believe that starting a diet on such a day could be successful.

The phrase also reflects the human tendency to approach goals—in this case, a healthier lifestyle—with great hope and determination, even when the circumstances are far from ideal. The act of starting a diet on Thanksgiving Day suggests a level of optimism or idealism that may not be grounded in practicality. It emphasizes how people often set high expectations for themselves, sometimes at the wrong time, driven by the desire for self-improvement or a fresh start.

By calling the person an optimist, Kupcinet humorously acknowledges the contrast between the dieting goal and the reality of the situation. Thanksgiving meals typically feature foods that are rich in fats, sugars, and carbohydrates—things that don’t typically align with many dietary plans. This light-hearted comment points out the challenge of sticking to healthy eating habits during occasions that are centered around food and celebration.

Ultimately, the quote serves as both a comedic observation and a reminder about timing and realistic goal-setting. While optimism is often a good quality, Kupcinet’s words suggest that it’s important to recognize the challenges of starting a major change, like a diet, during moments of indulgence or celebration. His humor highlights the difference between setting a goal and the circumstances in which it’s attempted.