Stop Dissing Pessimism — It’s Part Of Being Human
“In today’s society, being happy and having an optimistic
attitude are social expectations that weigh heavily on how we live and the
choices we make. While pessimism in the psychological sense is a tendency to
focus on bad outcomes, philosophical pessimism isn’t fundamentally about
outcomes. Rather, it’s a system that purports to explain the origins,
prevalence and ubiquity of suffering.
Given that the world we live in forces us to deal with pandemics, economic problems, wars and climate change it can seem overwhelming that we are supposed to be happy. It’s unrealistic to think we should always look at the bright side of events. This is why when society expects us to be happy, and blames us if we are not, positivity becomes toxic. If we find ourselves unable to live up to the happiness imperative, we can feel inadequate and like failures.
Pessimism can offer philosophical tools to better understand our place within existence. It can help us come to terms with the idea that refusing to relentlessly pursue happiness is perhaps the most reasonable attitude.”
Read the complete article at The Conversation
✨Discussion: There is a societal notion that everyone should strive for happiness. This view isn’t wrong. The trouble comes when we are constantly putting pressure on ourselves to constantly be happy. Which then becomes an obstacle.
Especially in the modern world with issues like climate change and pandemics. In these situations, it’s difficult to see the positive side of things. As a result, expecting to be happy constantly turns into a battle within itself. So, sometimes it’s okay to be pessimistic; it makes us human.
✨Reflection: Are you more of an optimist or pessimist?
#Pessimism #Existentialism #Philosophy #Wellness #Health
@innateJoy9602
Fair enough, confining people in either pessimist or optimist isn't the right approach, I feel, either of these are parts of being a human, typically it's also the situation one is in that impacts how they think, also big factors contributing to thought process is one's experiences, company around, willingness/ open-mindedness etc
It's a common saying, "glass half full or half empty", I believe that the glass is refillable so why fuss about it being full or empty. Just have a go, drink as much needed and then refill! 😛
I'd like to think of myself as a practically/ realistically-optimistic person 8 out of 10 times, remaining is kept buffer for being human and allowing the not-so-nice emotions to have a place and validity too.
Thankyou for sharing the article, and offering space for reflection. What are your thoughts on the same? ❤
@Sunisshiningandsoareyou
My new favorite quote: "The glass is refillable so why fuss about it being full or empty"
I share similar thoughts. I think a balance of both is nice! I think I'm a realist.
Thanks so much for taking the time to read and also doing some reflection and sharing an interesting perspective! <3 ✨🍀
@innateJoy9602
Aw haha that sounds perfect-o yay! *high fives* ❤
Love the title of this article! I would say I am a mix. We are naturally inclined to start with a negative approach but with work that can be changed and I like to look at things with different angles!
@SoulfullyAButterfly
That's interesting!
I think being a mix is wonderful!!
Its great to have a balance!
Thanks so much for taking the time to read! Appreciate it<3 💛✨
@innateJoy9602 I used to be very pessimistic but I'm now working on being more optimistic since that would be way better for my mental health. Thanks for sharing this lovely article!
@comfortableNight4463
I think thats great!
It's great your trying to better your mental health. I think thats lovely!
Thanks for reading! 💛✨