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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Practical Optimism summary
Sue Varma, M.D.
The Art, Science, and Practice of Exceptional Well-Being
20 mins
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Practical Optimism
Summary of 4 key ideas
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The pillars of practical optimism
Practical optimism, also known as PO, is a transformative mindset that goes beyond merely coping with stress – it’s about cultivating a deep sense of self-worth that empowers us to thrive in every aspect of life.
Sue Varma, came to PO through a personal journey. It started with a health scare that led her to explore the power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Through this therapy, she not only overcame her physical symptoms but also gained tools to manage her stress effectively.
This experience ignited her quest to understand how to prevent stress from manifesting as physical illness and how to help others do the same. In short, it led her to develop the tools of practical optimism. This approach combines the resilience of traditional optimism with proactive strategies for problem-solving and personal growth.
PO isn’t just about seeing the bright side of things; it's about taking practical steps to flourish in the face of adversity. Varma outlines eight pillars – or Ps – of PO, each offering actionable strategies for improving well-being: finding your purpose; processing emotions; problem-solving; developing a healthy sense of pride, building confidence and proficiency; being present; connecting with people; and practicing healthy habits. In the sections ahead, we’ll touch on all of these pillars. But let’s first be clear about the fact that PO isn’t a fixed trait, but rather a skill that you can learn and hone. You may have heard of the term “a growth mindset.” This is what PO is all about.
So let’s start with the first of those Ps: purpose. There are common misconceptions about having a purpose, the main one being that it’s a big, important, fixed thing and that it should be tied to your career. PO emphasizes that your purpose can stem from various aspects of your life and may evolve. And, importantly, it doesn’t require outside validation.
If you’re a bit fuzzy about your own purpose, you can gain clarity through a three-step plan: Acknowledge, Identify, Move forward – or AIM, for short.
The first step involves acknowledging and reflecting on your past decisions. Ask yourself, How did I get to where I am now? Do I have any regrets? How can I put these regrets away by learning from my disappointments and using that knowledge?
Next, identify your sources of meaning and joy. Then ask yourself, How can I add more of that into my life?
The final step is to take proactive steps toward a more purposeful life that contains more of that meaning and joy. Ask yourself, Are there mentors I can reach out to?
Take these steps and celebrate when you accomplish them.
PO is more than just an outlook on life. It’s a way of building resilience and keeping your mind focused on things that provide a sense of uplift and purpose. In the next section, you’ll find out how it can help you navigate the challenges in your life more easily.
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What is Practical Optimism about?
Practical Optimism (2024) offers actionable strategies for fostering well-being and resilience in everyday life. Through nurturing relationships, forming positive habits, and cultivating self-compassion, individuals can enhance their mental and physical health while thriving amidst life's challenges.
Practical Optimism Review
Practical Optimism (2022) by Sue Varma, M.D. explores practical strategies for fostering a positive mindset and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Here's why this book is a valuable read:
- Empowering tools and techniques for cultivating optimism and increasing mental well-being.
- This book offers insightful perspectives on reframing negative thoughts and embracing a more positive outlook on life.
- Engaging case studies and actionable exercises make the journey to optimism both interesting and transformative.
Who should read Practical Optimism?
- Anyone looking for a boost of positivity in their lives
- People coping with depression or anxiety
- Those eager for more confidence and resilience
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Practical Optimism FAQs
What is the main message of Practical Optimism?
The main message of Practical Optimism is to embrace positive thinking for a fulfilling life.
How long does it take to read Practical Optimism?
Reading Practical Optimism takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in 15 minutes.
Is Practical Optimism a good book? Is it worth reading?
Practical Optimism is worth reading for its practical advice on achieving a positive mindset.
Who is the author of Practical Optimism?
The author of Practical Optimism is Sue Varma, M.D.
What to read after Practical Optimism?
If you're wondering what to read next after Practical Optimism, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Single, Dating, Engaged, Married by Ben Stuart
- Break the Cycle by Dr. Mariel Buqué
- The Mindful Body by Ellen J. Langer
- And Then We Rise by Common
- Untangle Your Emotions by Jennie Allen
- Supercommunicators by Charles Duhigg
- How to Walk into a Room by Emily P. Freeman