STREAMING AUDIO: How Wishful Thinking makes you vulnerable to exploitation, disappointment, and pain

Fri March 22, 2024

Wishful thinking is the formation of beliefs based on what you want, rather than evidence or clear reasoning. It distances you from reality.

However, in those times when reality is overwhelming and we can’t summon the Inner strength to examine what’s really happening, wishful thinking is a quick fix for deep visceral urges.

For example, believing in a primal force to this constantly evolving universe is one thing, but believing in a compassionate, personal God is another thing entirely. Nevertheless, the thought that a superior being is watching over you takes off a lot of pressure—for a short while.

But this way of giving up your agency prevents you from taking action and weakens your ability to achieve goals. Result? Unfulfilled dreams and missed opportunities. It also blocks personal growth by sidestepping discomfort and all the challenges that trigger negative emotions.

This week in Mindfulness Live we discuss how to recognize, disable wishful thinking and find natural inner joy.