Why do our brains naturally lean toward optimism about the future? How can optimism bias both help and hurt us? Can we train ourselves to see life through a more optimistic lens?

In this podcast episode, Joe Sanok discusses the fact that we have an optimism bias and that it’s not necessarily a bad thing with Dr. Tali Sharot. 

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Meet Dr. Tali Sharot



Dr. Tali Sharot is a leading neuroscientist, author, and professor of cognitive neuroscience at University College London. Her groundbreaking research explores how emotion, motivation, and social factors influence our beliefs and decision-making. She is best known for her work on the optimism bias—our brain’s natural tendency to view the future more positively than the past or present.

Dr. Sharot is the author of three acclaimed books, The Optimism Bias, The Influential Mind, and Look Again, and her TED Talk on optimism has been viewed millions of times worldwide. Through her research, writing, and public speaking, she helps us understand how we can use the brain’s natural tendencies to make better choices, stay motivated, and lead healthier, more resilient lives.

Visit Affective Brain Lab and listen to Dr. Sharot’s TED Talk.

In This Podcast



* What is the Optimism Bias? 

* Pros and cons of optimism bias 

* Developing an optimistic lens 

* Dr. Sharot’s advice to private practitioners



What is the Optimism Bias? 



An optimism bias … is people’s tendency to imagine the future as being better than the past or the present, and seeing things with relatively rosy-colored glasses. (Dr. Tali Sharot)



It is very common to have an optimism bias, as Dr. Sharot discovered in her research.

However, there are also pros and cons to having a perpetually optimistic tendency to life. Depending on how you use it, it can either help or hinder you! 

Pros and cons of optimism bias 

On the positive side, good expectations of the future can be motivating, encouraging us to try and be dedicated.



Optimism, even if it’s biased, meaning it’s better than what reality shows, it’s still helpful in motivating us to try, to put in effort, and that’s why optimism is often related to success in many different fields. (Dr. Tali Sharot)



Additionally, having an optimism bias can also be beneficial for your mental and physical health. People get better because they take better care of themselves. 



It’s not that they’re thinking, “Oh,