BLUF

The author of this article argues that ‘defensive pessimism’ can help people—especially those who suffer anxiety—improve positive thinking and decision-making.

Summary

This article by Eyal Winter, and printed in Neuroscience News, makes the following points:
  • Positive psychology is a tool used by psychologists to focus on enhancing the happiness of mentally healthy people. 
  • However, rather than relieving the mental pain and trauma— positive thinking might have a negative side.
  • Ultimately, positive psychology suggests we avoid focusing too much on regrets about the past or worrying about the future. 
  • But humans are hardwired by evolution to live in the past and the future.
  • Human survival relies on learning and planning. 
  • You can’t learn without living in the past, and you can’t plan without thinking about the future.
Learn more about how negative thinking can at times be beneficial

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