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The Psychology of Optimism, Realism and Well-being
Positive thinking is often celebrated as the key to happiness, but emerging research reveals a different truth. A study by the University of Bath and London school of economics and political science (LSE) suggests that realism rather than optimism or pessimism leads to greater long term well being.
The Pitfalls of Over-optimism:
Optimism is the belief that good things are on the horizon. While this mindset can inspire effort and resilience, unrealistic optimism often backfires. For example, unrealistic financial expectations can lead to poor decisions and significant disappointment when outcomes fall short. Over-optimists may underestimate risks, as seen during the Covid-19 pandemic, where some avoided necessary precautions due to perceived invulnerability.
The Role of Optimism Bias:
Optimism bias is the tendency to believe in an overly favorable future. For instance, at a wedding, couples often rate their likelihood of divorce at 0% despite statistics showing a 40% divorce rate. This bias can drive individuals to work harder, but when reality doesn’t align, it results in lower satisfaction.
Why Pessimism is not the answer:
Pessimists often adopt a “prepare for the worst” mindset, believing that low expectations shield them from disappointment. However, the study highlights that constant negativity undermines well-being. Example: A pessimist who fears job loss may avoid taking necessary risks, such as pursuing new opportunities.
The Emotional Toll of Negativity:
Pessimists experience constant stress and dread which counteracts any relief they feel from outcomes being better than expected.
The Case for Realism:
Realists strike a balance, making decisions grounded in evidence and unbiased assessments. They neither overestimate success nor dwell on failure, which foster resilience and contentment. Example: Realists during the pandemic took measured precautions, balancing health risks and social needs.
The Science behind Realism:
The study analyzed 1600 individuals over 18 years, measuring financial outcomes, life satisfaction and psychological distress. Realists consistently reported higher well-being than optimists or pessimists.
The Power of Perspective:
Optimism and realism both rely on perspective, as illustrated in the movie Apollo 13: Faced with disaster, one character reframes the situation : “With all due respect, I believe this is gonna be our finest hour”. This mindset demonstrates how optimism, when tempered with realism, helps individuals navigate challenges effectively.
Practical Takeaways:
1. Set Realistic Goals: Make sure that instead of lofty dreams, aim for achievable milestones. Example: Save a specific amount monthly rather than hoping for sudden financial windfalls.
2. Embrace Evidence-Based Decisions: Evaluate risks and opportunities logically.
3. Cultivate Resilience: Balance hope with preparedness for setbacks.
Optimism fuels efforts, but unchecked optimism can lead to disappointment. Realism, on the other hand, provides a stable foundation for long-term happiness. By embracing realistic expectations, we can make better decisions and navigate life’s uncertainties with clarity and confidence.
Realism is a powerful tool for navigating life’s challenges, helping us balance hope with practicality for sustained well-being. At ImPerfect, a professional team of psychologists in Mumbai, we believe in empowering individuals to make informed, evidence-based decisions that lead to lasting success and satisfaction. Discover how our team can support your journey to a balanced and fulfilling life.
By Urveez Kakalia and Krupa Abraham
Reference:
1. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/07/200707113230.htm
Further Readings:
Benoit, L., Russo, T., Barry, C., Falissard, B., & Henckes, N. (2019). “You have to believe in something”: Risk of psychosis and psychiatrists’ beliefs in the self-fulfilling prophecy. Social Science & Medicine, 230, 20-29.
Madon, S., Jussim, L., & Eccles, J. (1997). In search of the powerful self-fulfilling prophecy. Journal of personality and social psychology, 72(4), 791.
Petropoulos Petalas, D., Van Schie, H., & Hendriks Vettehen, P. (2017). Forecasted economic change and the self-fulfilling prophecy in economic decision-making. Plos one, 12(3), e0174353.