This week on Think Thursday, weāre exploring an idea that turns conventional wisdom on its head: defensive pessimism. While it may sound like a negative mindset, itās actually a powerful, evidence-based cognitive strategy that helps anxious or overthinking brains perform better, reduce stress, and follow through on goals more effectively.Defensive pessimism isn't about catastrophizing or giving up. It's about anticipating obstacles and using those thoughts to prepare instead of panic. In this episode, you'll learn how this approach taps into the brainās natural tendency to predict outcomes, and how making one critical shift ā understanding the difference between prediction and probability ā can dramatically improve your results.Weāll talk about:What defensive pessimism is and why it worksThe neuroscience of prediction and how it affects your behaviorWhy your brainās āwhat ifsā might be trying to help youA simple three-step process to start using this strategy todayWhether you're trying to build a new habit, overcome self-doubt, or just want to feel more in control of your daily life, this mindset can help you stop overthinking and start planning with confidence.Want more support? Join the Alcohol Minimalist Facebook group or email Molly directly at
[email protected].Ā Weād love to hear how youāre using defensive pessimism to create change.
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