Why Optimism Makes Us Sad | Are We Better Off Being Pessimists? | Einzelgänger episode artwork

EPISODE · Sep 13, 2026 · 17 MIN

Why Optimism Makes Us Sad | Are We Better Off Being Pessimists? | Einzelgänger

from Einzelgänger · host Einzelgänger

Why Optimism Makes Us Sad | Are We Better Off Being Pessimists? Generally, people praise the optimistic mindset, and research suggests that optimism helps us reduce stress and depressive symptoms. Hence, optimism seems to be a healthy coping mechanism for dealing with the future when looking at the scientifically proven benefits.But does optimism also have downsides? Can some forms of optimism even be dangerous? And could it be that, in some cases, we’re better off being pessimistic? This video explores why optimism may not always be the wisest choice and why being a pessimist may be the best move.Support the channel: ✔️ PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/einzelgangerco ✔️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/einzelgangster ✔️ Bitcoin: 3HQnEz1LQ4G6dqN2LdZgzc7qoJjJCyWjTC (Donated BTC and want in the credits? Send me an email with the amount/address)🎞️ Animations and thumbnail art by Munkaa: https://www.youtube.com/user/jus7yPurchase Stoicism for Inner Peace (affiliate links): 📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/3wB9iHb 💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/2RdjbKVPurchase Unoffendable (affiliate links): 📘 Paperback: https://amzn.to/2RJYfti 💻 Ebook: https://amzn.to/35e23a5Merchandise: 🛍️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/einzelgangerstore 🛍️ Merchandise design by Punksthetic Art: https://www.youtube.com/user/JRStoneartCreative Commons (attributions):Auschwitz footage: https://archive.org/details/Auschwitz1946 Nagasaki: https://archive.org/details/428Npc2586NagasakiBurst Bombing Germany: https://archive.org/details/BombingNorthernGermany Frankl: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Viktor_Frankl2.jpg Roman bathhouse: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hull_bathhouse_6_July_2018.jpg Epictetus: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Discourses__Epictetus_(illustration_1)_(9021700938).jpg00:00 Intro 03:27 (1) We won't be shocked when bad things happen. 06:15 (2) We can use the situation advantageously. 09:53 (3) We'll appreciate a positive outcome.#toxicpositivity #optimism #pessimism Turn on notifications for the podcast & rate it a 5star for new episodes. Einzelgänger explores a wide range of topics and ideas, with a dose of "as I see it," out of curiosity and creative urge. Einzelgänger is under the supervision of the Dutch Regulatory Media Authority (Commissariaat voor de Media). *Disclaimer: The material provided by Einzelgänger isn't a clinical/medical service or replacement of mental health professionals, nor an academic resource. Disclaimer: This audio project is an independent interpretation of content originally created by Einzelgänger. It was made by a listener who resonates deeply with the channel’s quiet reflections on philosophy, solitude, and selfmastery - and seeks to share that experience in a format suited for stillness, movement, or anything in between. This is not an official production of Einzelgänger, nor is it affiliated with or endorsed by the creator. All rights to the original material remain with Einzelgänger. If you represent the channel and wish to get in touch regarding this adaptation, please feel free to reach out. ---------- --------- Keywords: western philosophy, self improvement, nihilism, taoist wisdom, seneca, mindfulness, ancient philosophy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Why Optimism Makes Us Sad | Are We Better Off Being Pessimists? | Einzelgänger

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