Can you train yourself to become a more optimistic person? + The brain science behind why the negative affects us so much & how to get out of a toxic thinking spiral

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SHOW DESCRIPTION: As I discuss in this podcast the brain has a natural optimism bias—we are what I call “wired for love”. This means that when we are connected to others in deep and meaningful ways, and when we are satisfied with where we are in life and where we are going (even if we have ups and downs, which are normal!), we can function at a healthy level. The brain likes it when we are in a good place!

Read the show blog here: https://drleaf.com/blogs/news/can-you-make-yourself-a-more-optimistic-person

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PODCAST HIGHLIGHTS:

2:00 Our natural optimism bias & how we are wired for love

2:27 What is the mind, and how is it different to the brain?

3:26 How optimism helps us survive AND thrive

7:00 How negative thinking distorts the brain

12:00 How negative thinking can become a habit and impact your mental and physical health

16:50 How to get rid of a bad thinking habit

17:50 Why we need to embrace the negative

20:21 The best way to control your thinking and manage your mind

21:50 How to make negativity work for you and not against you

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