The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos cover image

The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

Don't Accentuate the Positive

Oct 29, 2019
Bob Bowman, the innovative coach behind Michael Phelps's monumental success, shares insights on how visualizing obstacles rather than just positive outcomes set athletes up for victory. Kristen Beck, a decorated veteran and transgender activist, opens up about her courageous journey, advocating for inclusivity in a polarized society. They discuss how mental resilience and embracing challenges can lead to extraordinary achievements, along with the unexpected power of acknowledging negative scenarios as part of personal growth.
41:26

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Negative visualization can enhance performance by preparing for challenges.
  • Mental contrasting helps in overcoming obstacles and enhancing motivation for goal achievement.

Deep dives

The Power of Positive Thinking

Positive thinking has been promoted as a key to success, with the belief that visualizing success can lead to positive outcomes. Norman Vincent Peale's 'The Power of Positive Thinking' emphasized the impact of positive thoughts in shaping one's reality. However, the idea that negative thoughts can also manifest obstacles has persisted, challenging the notion of solely positive thinking.

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