The remaining 75% is shaped by environmental factors, ___ experiences, and cognitive processes. Dr. Varma’s research explores the profound impact of optimism on individuals’ well-being. She highlights that cultivating optimism can enhance resilience, foster social connections, and promote overall happiness. The oxytocin receptor gene, which plays a central role in nurturing mother-infant bonds… also contributes to optimism.
Studies have shown that individuals with higher oxytocin receptor gene expression tend to have more positive outlook, engage in prosocial behaviors, and experience stronger emotional ties. “Practical Optimism” empowers individuals to recognize that optimism is not merely a passive trait but an active choice that can be cultivated and nurtured.
Dr. Varma emphasizes the invaluable role that mindfulness, self-compassion, “and positive self-talk can play in fostering optimism.” By embracing a holistic approach to happiness… individuals can unlock the profound benefits of optimism, “regardless of their genetic makeup.” As Dr. Varma concludes, optimism is not just a destination but an ongoing journey that requires ongoing nurturing and maintenance.
**Sources:** – Fast Company
– Dr.
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Dr. Sue Varma is a board-certified psychiatrist and an award-winning national medical contributor for major news outlets. She is a clinical assistant professor of Psychiatry at New York University (NYU) Langone Health and teaches medical students and residents. Dr. Varma was the first medical director treating first responders and civilians for PTSD, depression, and anxiety at the World Trade Center Mental Health Program (WTC MHP) at NYU Langone/Bellevue.
Below, Dr. Varna shares five key insights from her new book, PracticalOptimism: The Art, Science, and Practice of Exceptional Well-Being . Listen to the audio version—read by Dr. Varna herself—in the Next Big Idea App.
But what if you’re not a natural-born optimist? No problem—I spent the last 20 years studying how we can all benefit from the wellspring of optimism and reap its benefits, even if you are the glass-half-empty-type. But how isn’t optimism genetic? Well, it is, but that’s only part of the story.
Scientists have even identified that optimism is actually associated with the oxytocin receptor gene (oxytocin is a cuddle and bonding hormone that facilitates understanding, empathy, and connection between people—mother and infant, romantic partners, friends, etc. But we are learning that when it comes to optimism, genes play a much smaller role than we once thought. Only about 25% of optimism is genetic; the rest is up to us.
