Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Parenting 223: Practical Optimism with Dr. Sue Varma
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Jun 10, 2025 
Dr. Sue Varma, a New York City psychiatrist and author of "Practical Optimism," shares valuable insights on nurturing resilience in tweens and teens. She discusses the four pillars of mental well-being and the art of modeling emotional strength. Listeners learn techniques for combating anxiety, the importance of self-compassion, and the transformative power of visualization. Varma emphasizes seeking fulfillment beyond work and highlights the importance of healthy relationships and optimism in parenting for overall mental health.
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Optimism Is a Learnable Skill
- Optimism is largely a skill we can develop, not just a trait we're born with.
- Practicing emotional regulation and seeking support build our capacity to bend without breaking from adversity.
Purpose as an Optimism Pillar
- Clarify your purpose to guide your interactions and life's actions.
- Create purpose by engaging in hobbies, volunteering, or exploring awe to combat rumination.
Victimhood Diminishes Agency
- Victimhood traps by diminishing personal agency and fostering pessimism.
- Resilience means pushing forward despite trauma, not denying reality nor succumbing to paralysis.
