Half-full or Half-empty?

Image from Nationwide Consumer Confidence Index

This morning, the BBC reported on the Nationwide Consumer Confidence Index and used the word "optimistic" in the headline.  

Looking at the report directly, the Chief Economist from Nationwide used the word "pessimistic" in his summary.  With a nod to a bit more confidence appearing than the previous results.  The funny little barometer in the report posted above is indicating "stormy" but it is on the up and up.  Because it is as it is.  Or is it?

Here is the report.  If you are non-UK based, please bear in mind that "Nationwide" is a financial services company.  It does have some snappy charts worth a gander.