Changing Minds with Owen Fitzpatrick

RERUN: Stop Thinking Negative

Aug 11, 2025
Dive into the layers of negative thinking and its surprising roots. Discover how cognition affects both mental and physical health. Explore the brain's inclination toward pessimism and the science behind it. Learn about common cognitive distortions that fuel negativity and practical strategies to change your mindset. From gratitude journaling to redefining your identity, find actionable tools to cultivate optimism. Plus, understand when negative thoughts can actually serve as motivation.
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INSIGHT

Negative Thinking Is Not Always Bad

  • Negative thinking isn't always bad and shouldn't be stigmatized as wholly wrong.
  • Understanding when negativity helps lets you use it purposefully rather than suppressing it.
ANECDOTE

Conversation About Making Every Second Count

  • Owen recounts a conversation with his uncle who questioned making every second count.
  • The exchange highlights the value of lowering relentless expectations.
INSIGHT

Brain's Negativity Bias Serves Survival

  • Our brains prioritize threat detection due to an evolved negativity bias.
  • The amygdala flags new events to judge whether they signal reward or danger.
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