Optimism & Money: How to Think Your Way to Richness with Dr. Sue Varma
Jan 17, 2024
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Dr. Sue Varma, a board-certified psychiatrist and author of "Practical Optimism," discusses the powerful link between mental health and wealth. She shares strategies for fostering resilience and practical optimism, emphasizing actionable steps for navigating life's challenges. Varma highlights the role of positive imagery and self-care in enhancing both emotional well-being and financial success. Her insights reveal that cultivating a positive mindset can lead to greater fulfillment in both personal and professional realms.
Dr. Sue Varma emphasizes the growing acceptance of mental health discussions, highlighting societal shifts influenced by generational changes and social media platforms.
The concept of practical optimism introduces actionable strategies for cultivating a positive mindset and enhancing emotional regulation in daily life.
Research underscores the correlation between optimism and positive life outcomes, including improved health, financial success, and stronger interpersonal relationships.
Deep dives
Dealing with Anxiety and Negative Thoughts
The host shares her struggles with anxiety, particularly regarding the launch of her debut book. She expresses worries about the book's reception, fearing that it may disappoint readers or fail to sell. Despite identifying as an optimist, she reveals that stress can lead her to focus on worst-case scenarios. This personal reflection sets the stage for a discussion on managing anxiety and cultivating a more positive mindset.
The Role of Psychiatry in Promoting Mental Health
The guest, a board-certified psychiatrist, details her extensive background in mental health, including her work with 9/11 survivors and her role as a clinical assistant professor. She emphasizes the growing acceptance of discussing mental health issues in society, attributing this shift to generational changes and the impact of social media platforms like TikTok. Through her public speaking and educational efforts, she aims to address stigma and promote understanding of psychiatric practices. This highlights the importance of mental health awareness and the evolving conversation around it.
Understanding Optimism and Its Genetic Basis
The psychiatrist discusses the genetic factors contributing to optimism, specifically mentioning the oxytocin receptor gene. Some individuals are predisposed to be naturally more optimistic due to their genetic makeup. However, she emphasizes that even those who may not be genetically inclined toward optimism can develop practical optimism through learned behaviors and coping strategies. This insight provides hope to individuals who may feel trapped by their pessimistic tendencies, highlighting the role of effort in changing mindset.
Practical Optimism: Framework for Positive Living
The concept of practical optimism is introduced as a structured approach to cultivating a positive mindset intentionally. This framework involves specific steps, like identifying one's purpose and practicing healthy habits to enhance emotional regulation. Rather than merely encouraging a positive outlook, practical optimism emphasizes actionable strategies to thrive beyond the state of being undepressed. This proactive stance on mental health encourages individuals to seek a fulfilled and purpose-driven life.
The Connection Between Optimism and Success
Research shows a clear link between optimism and various positive outcomes, including better health and financial success. Optimistic individuals tend to take calculated risks, build supportive networks, and maintain long-lasting relationships. Their positive outlook not only affects their mental health but also translates into greater success across various life domains. The conversation suggests that fostering an optimistic mindset can lead to improved overall well-being and fulfillment.
On this week's episode of Networth and Chill, it's all about mental health with Dr. Sue Varma, a a board certified psychiatrist and the author of Practical Optimism. These days, talking about mental health and therapy is seen as trendy, and honestly it's for good reason. We are constantly facing stressful situations in our day-to-day lives, and it can be hard to push away negative mindsets. Dr. Sue Varma has years of experience helping people work through trauma and other mental health issues, as well as being a mental health contributor for TV and radio. I want to know how wealth affects our mental state, and find out the science behind "positive thinking" and "optimistic mindsets". We take a look at how these things can change our lives for the better, and what small things we can incorporate into our days to alleviate our anxious brains.
Got a financial question you want answered on a future episode? Text me or leave me a voicemail at 908-858-3410.
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