Psychiatrist Dr. Sue Varma discusses what practical optimism is (and how it differs from toxic positivity), why anybody can become one, and the tools you can use today to start being more optimistic.

How to know if you’re an optimist or a pessimist

The positive health effects of optimism 

The secret to forming good habits that no one talks about 

The major difference between practical optimism and toxic positivity

The neurological changes that occur as you practice optimism

A genius trick to stop worrying 

2 secrets for finding purpose (and why it’s so important to optimism) 

Science-backed tools you can use to immediately become more optimistic 

And so much more!

For more from Dr. Varma you can find her on Instagram @doctorsuevarma and on her website www.doctorsuevarma.com. Her book Practical Optimism: The Art, Science, and Practice of Exceptional Well-Being is available for pre-order in advance of its February 20th release.To join The Liz Moody Podcast Club Facebook group, go to https://www.facebook.com/groups/thelizmoodypodcast.Ready to uplevel every part of your life? Order my new book 100 Ways to Change Your Life: The Science of Leveling Up Health, Happiness, Relationships & Success now! This episode is sponsored by:Natural Cycles: use code Liz or go to naturalcycles.app/Liz to get 15% off an annual subscription + a free thermometer.Caraway: visit Carawayhome.com/LIZM or use code LIZM for 10% off.AG1: visit drinkag1.com/lizmoody and get your FREE year supply of Vitamin D and 5 free travel packs today. Open: get 30 days free of Open by visiting withopen.com/LIZMOODY.Puori: go to puori.com/LIZMOODY and use promo code LIZMOODY for 20% sitewide.Previous episodes referred to in this episode:What We Get Wrong About Anger + How To Harness Its Full Potential with Dr. Ryan MartinHow To Drink Less Without Feeling Boring, Judged, Or Stressed with Therapist Amanda E. WhiteHow To Overcome Imposter Syndrome And Start Living Your Best Life with Dr. Valerie YoungThe Liz Moody Podcast cover art by Zack. The Liz Moody Podcast music by Alex Ruimy.Formerly the Healthier Together Podcast.