180. Beyond the Smiles: Exploring the Dangers of Toxic Positivity

In our episode 177 we covered the book, Worthy by Jamie Kern Lima. I’d mentioned my interest in a distinction she covered: Toxic Positivity. When I saw that part in her book I had visions of the Disney Pixar film Inside Out (2015) which did a fantastic job illustrating the dangers of being so over-positive that it can be damaging. I could totally relate to the character! Can you? Topics Covered: Defining “toxic positivity” Signs and problems with “toxic positivity” Melody Wilding’s Sensitive Strivers and positivity Gabby Bernsten’s view on “manic manifesting” Research findings   Here are 3 takeaways:   1.   “Toxic Positivity” is common and often a response to some underlying beliefs. 2.    Thinking positive 24/7 can be stressful and deny our humanity. 3.    Accepting our full range of emotions benefits us and some ways to do this include practices like mindful meditation and learning to take other perspectives. Mentioned in the Episode:   Ep. 177, Worthy: Self-Confidence, Self-Worth, and Insights from Jamie Kern Lima’s Book https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/GZYYyKutwLb   Ep. 179, Trauma, Control, and the Journey to Vulnerability, Trust – Insights from Gabor Maté, Daniel Goleman, Brené Brown. https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/HZPBY7uQELb   https://melodywilding.com/positive-thinking-doesnt-work/ Ep. 82, Book discussion: Trust Yourself, Stop Overthinking and channel Your Emotions for Success at Work by Melody Wilding https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/02oDM21lyLb https://content.mycareersfuture.gov.sg/toxic-positivity-being-too-positive-causes-more-harm/   Ep. 80, Book discussion: Emotional Agility by Susan David PhD with Help From the Velveteen Rabbit https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/uHvgcP8lyLb   Ep. 41, A Discussion about Mindfulness with Cynde Denson and the book, Ditching Imposter Syndrome by Clare Josa https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/kaIC5JamyLb   Byron Katie The Work https://thework.com/   Ep. 38, Ugh…Let’s take on the Emotion of Envy with Byron Katie’s Help – Brené Brown would be proud! https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/QTiCFEiQELb   Meditation Resources   Cynde Denson https://cyndedenson.com/ Whitney Baker FREE 5-Min Guided Meditation https://icy-queen-56311.myflodesk.com   Mesha McKittrick https://myfriendmesha.com    Melissa Brunetti SMGI https://www.somatichealingjourneys.com/     Next Episode Topic Ep. 181 Embracing Vulnerability and Courage: Crafting New Identities with Creativity and Care – Let’s Toot Our Own Horn!   How to reach Yo Canny:    Our website: www.girltaketheleadpod.com  You can send a message or voicemail there. We’d love to hear from you!   email: [email protected]   FB group: Girl, Take the Lead https://www.facebook.com/groups/272025931481748/?ref=share   IG: yocanny (Yo)   YouTube   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yocanny/