Are You Wired For Optimism? with Neil Garrett

Oct 13, 2016

Cognitive neuroscientist Neil Garrett discusses how research suggests our brains may be wired for optimism. Factors like depression and stress can influence this bias. Filtering of information can encourage motivation but also lead to risk-taking. The role of genetics in this process is not yet known. Neil explores the double-sided nature of optimism and how to incorporate realistic optimism in budget planning. He also talks about reframing setbacks, running for creativity, and implementing positive psychology practices in the workplace.

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Introduction

00:00 • 3min

The Impact of Information Filtering

03:15 • 9min

The Double-Sided Nature of Optimism and Incorporating Realistic Optimism in Budget Planning

11:57 • 2min

Reframing setbacks and the power of running for creativity and productivity

13:33 • 2min

Books, Daily Routines, and Implementing Positive Psychology in the Workplace

15:10 • 3min

Neil Garrett is a cognitive neuroscientist at the University College London. His research investigates the mechanisms by which individuals learn information about the world and the factors that influence learning processes.

Neil Garrett’s website: http://neilgarrett.org/

In this conversation, Neil shares that research suggests that our brains may be wired for optimism. People tend to over-estimate the likelihood of positive events in the future and under-estimate the likelihood of negative events in the future. Although this is not the case with everyone, as there are external factors that can influence this in individuals.

Neil’s findings can help leaders determine the best ways to deliver information in workplaces. There are some negatives that come from this optimism and Neil talks about what those negatives are and explains the necessary balance that needs to happen.

You’ll Learn:

[01:27] - Neil shares some takeaways from his presentation at the European Conference on Positive Psychology.
[02:13] - According to Neil, research suggests that our brains are wired for optimism. However, this can be influenced by factors such as depression, stress, and anxiety.
[03:21] - Neil talks about what is going on neurologically as our brain interprets good and bad information.
[05:10] - This filtering of information encourages motivation, but can lead to risk-taking.
[05:52] - Neil says that the role of genetics in this process is not yet known.
[06:31] - Neil talks about how his findings can influence the workplace.
[08:15] - Neil discusses how leaders can use this information to deliver information.
[09:47] - Neil talks about the impact technology can have on harnessing our brain’s activity.
[10:57] - Neil shares some of his current research, which involves work with firefighters.
[12:21] - Neil talks more about the negatives of this optimism, such as risk-taking behaviors and ignoring warning signs.
[13:34] - The Lightning Round with Neil Garrett

Your Resources:

The Great Brain Experiment (app)

What I Talk About When I Talk About Running - Haruki Murakami

Sweet Tooth: A Novel - Ian McEwan

Daily Rituals: How Artists Work - Mason Currey

European Conference on Positive Psychology

Positive Psychology Program

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Until next time, take care!