The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos Can You Become a "Practical" Optimist?
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Apr 21, 2025 
Dr. Sue Varma, a psychiatrist and author of 'Practical Optimism', discusses her innovative approach to optimism developed while treating trauma survivors after 9/11. She distinguishes practical optimism from mere positive thinking, emphasizing emotional processing for resilience and personal growth. Varma shares strategies for transforming negative thoughts, the significance of social support, and the beauty of imperfection through concepts like kintsugi. Listeners will discover how to cultivate an optimistic mindset and navigate life's challenges.
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9-11 Impact on Dr. Varma
- Dr. Sue Varma treated people affected by 9-11, experiencing imposter syndrome initially.
- She saw trauma deeply impacted people but also witnessed resilience and grit emerge in New Yorkers.
Dad's Resilience Inspires Optimism
- Sue's father inspired her with resilience and optimism despite hardship in India.
- His attitude: laugh or cry, you choose how to live and tell your story.
Resilience Is Mostly Learnable
- Most people experience trauma, but only about 8-10% develop PTSD.
- Resilience and optimism can be cultivated, not just inherited traits.
