Practical Optimism: The Art, Science, and Practice of Exceptional Well-Being

by Sue Varma MD

A practical program rooted in optimism to help you live fully and joyfully in an imperfect, turbulent world

As the first medical director and attending psychiatrist at the World Trade Center Mental Health Program, Dr. Sue Varma worked directly with civilian and first-responder survivors in the aftermath of 9/11. There, she met people at every point of the stress and trauma continuum. She saw devastation and stagnancy as much as she saw amazing resilience and growth. She asked how do some people survive, even thrive, despite profound challenges? And how can we optimize the things we have control over, while buffering ourselves from stress?

Through her work with patients and combining philosophy, her own personal experience, and a review of the latest research in psychology, psychiatry, medicine, and neuroscience, Dr. Varma discovered that the answer lies in cultivating an optimistic mindset that stays tethered to the real world and helps us make sound and reasonable decisions. This epiphany inspired Practical Optimism, Dr. Varma’s powerful program with eight pillars to help all of us experience a sense of meaning, mastery, and self-acceptance and create lives filled with joy and purpose. Optimists, research has shown, are not just happier and more successful, but physically healthier. And if you’re a natural-born pessimist? No the most vital piece of the Practical Optimism program is that it is a practice, a skillset that we can choose to adopt and get better at every day.

This book isn’t about magical thinking. Practical optimists are resourceful, realistic, and thoughtful problem solvers who possess something of rare the inner resources to cope during a crisis and to use as fuel to flourish. Complete with self-assessment quizzes and exercises, Practical Optimism will help us all see the world for the better and reach our true potential. Practical Optimism is a scientific and tangible pathway to boosting health, happiness, resilience, success, and longevity.

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help, Psychology, Health, Audiobook, Personal Development, Mental Health

Audible Audio

First published February 20, 2024

Reviews

[Jung · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Practical Optimism” by Dr. Sue Varma is a comprehensive guide to adopting a mindset that combines the resilience of traditional optimism with actionable strategies for problem-solving and personal growth. This transformative approach, known as Practical Optimism (PO), is designed to help individuals cope with life's challenges while fostering a deep sense of self-worth and well-being.

The Essence of Practical Optimism: Practical Optimism is not about ignoring life's difficulties or living in denial. Instead, it embraces reality and encourages a balanced, proactive approach to adversity. Dr. Varma introduces PO through her personal journey with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helped her manage stress and health issues, ultimately leading her to develop the principles of PO.

PO is structured around eight pillars – the "8 Ps" – that provide a framework for improving well-being:

1. Purpose
2. Processing Emotions
3. Problem-Solving
4. Pride
5. Proficiency
6. Present
7. People
8. Practicing Healthy Habits

Each pillar contains specific strategies and exercises designed to build resilience, enhance emotional regulation, and promote personal growth.

The Pillars of Practical Optimism

1. Purpose:
- Purpose is not limited to career achievements; it can evolve from various life aspects and does not require external validation.
- The AIM plan (Acknowledge, Identify, Move forward) helps individuals clarify their purpose:
- Acknowledge: Reflect on past decisions and learn from regrets.
- Identify: Determine sources of meaning and joy.
- Move forward: Take steps to incorporate more purpose-driven activities into daily life.

2. Processing Emotions:
- Effective emotional management involves acknowledging and labeling emotions, reducing their power over you.
- The four-step approach: Name it, Tame it, Claim it, and Reframe it.
- Name it: Recognize emotions as physical sensations.
- Tame it: Identify triggers and roots of emotions.
- Claim it: Employ strategies to manage emotions.
- Reframe it: Shift perspective to a more positive outlook.

3. Problem-Solving:
- Practical optimists excel at accurate problem assessment and confident decision-making.
- The Five Rs approach: Reassess, Refuel, Request input, Remind, and Reappraise.
- Reassess: Evaluate context and seek modifications.
- Refuel: Prioritize self-care (sleep, nutrition, relaxation).
- Request input: Seek perspectives from trusted sources.
- Remind: Recall past successes and strengths.
- Reappraise: Reframe situations positively, sometimes using humor or resourcefulness.

4. Pride:
- Healthy pride involves recognizing self-worth while acknowledging imperfections.
- Self-compassion is crucial, promoting growth and resilience.
- The four-step process: Observe, Contextualize, Normalize, and Act.
- Observe: Acknowledge feelings without criticism.
- Contextualize: Understand situational influences.
- Normalize: Accept that everyone makes mistakes.
- Act: Develop a plan for accountability and correction.

5. Proficiency:
- Proficiency is the belief in one’s ability to achieve goals and overcome obstacles.
- It combines self-efficacy expectations (confidence in specific behaviors) and outcome expectations (confidence in achieving results).
- Developed through personal experience, vicarious experience, and constructive feedback.

6. Present:
- Being present involves maintaining focus and attention in the moment, which can be challenged by technology.
- Avoid cognitive traps like rumination (dwelling on the past), worry (fixating on the future), and comparison (judging against others).
- Establish morning and evening rituals free from technology to reclaim attention.

7. People:
- Social connections are vital for mental well-being, with a focus on quality over quantity.
- Understanding attachment styles (avoidant or anxious) helps improve relationship dynamics.
- Practical optimists build trust, empathy, and healthy boundaries.

8. Practicing Healthy Habits:
- Habits shape daily routines and identity. Intentional goal-setting and accountability practices bridge the gap between intention and action.
- Recognize strengths and vulnerabilities to tailor habits.
- The 4 Ms of mental health: Mastery, Movement, Meaningful Engagement, and Mindfulness.
- Mastery: Commitment to lifelong learning and improvement.
- Movement: Regular physical activity.
- Meaningful Engagement: Connecting with others meaningfully.
- Mindfulness: Cultivating self-compassion and appreciation for life.

Practical Optimism is a holistic approach to well-being that integrates cognitive behavioral therapy tools with actionable strategies for personal growth. By focusing on the eight pillars, individuals can develop a resilient, positive outlook on life, fostering self-awareness and catching negativity before it takes root. Practical Optimism emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships, forming positive habits, and practicing self-compassion, ultimately helping individuals thrive in all aspects of life. By embracing practical optimism, one can cultivate resilience, prioritize self-care, and achieve exceptional well-being through small, intentional steps.

[Susan Z (webreakforbooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great practical, real life way to be more optimistic. It has been truly life changing and mind changing for someone like me who leans more pessimistic. I highly recommend it.

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slow to start...the title suggests the content well, so voluminous intro isn't necessary.
After that, I really felt that this book has much to offer.

[Halie Domingue · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think this book offers a great set of tools and skills that make mental wellness more accessible to people who might not be willing or able to go to therapy. There are some excellent strategies for managing difficult thoughts and learning how to regulate emotions. However, there’s a noticeable “bootstrap” mentality that Varma seems to promote. I struggle with this perspective, as it can lead some readers to believe their challenges are entirely their own fault when, in reality, the picture is often much more complex. It didn’t totally fall flat, but as is often the case with mental health, the truth is simply more complicated.

[Allie Ring · Rating 5 out of 5]

It takes me a while to read Self Help books, but I felt like I kept picking this one up whenever I needed it.

I love Dr. Varma's way with words—easy to comprehend! And I'll say it... Practical Optimism is not hard to start putting into daily practice. I loved the writing prompts throughout and even found myself writing in my journal on the bus! Practical Optimism itself takes work and consistent mental reminding, but as Dr. Varma mentions in the book, once something becomes a habit it becomes a part of you and your daily life.

I am slowly recommending this to everyone I come across. As I was reading it, I kept thinking of people in my life who would benefit from this book. (One of my best friends listened to the audio book and thought of me, so it's definitely "think of your friend" provoking!)

Really enjoyed reading this and definitely recommend to you if you're reading this!

[Jen Litt]

I just finished the introduction to "Practical Optimism", and it really resonated with me. The author touches on the concept of Kintsugi, the Japanese art of mending broken pottery with a metal like gold, silver, or platinum. Kintsugi is often seen as a metaphor for embracing flaws and imperfection, and the philosophy behind it is that by repairing breaks with precious metals, instead of trying to disguise or discard the broken item, the object becomes even more beautiful and valuable because of its flaws and history. It's a great metaphor on how we can handle life's challenges.

I am excited to dive into her Eight Pillars and start applying the methods into my daily life and overall mentality to live a fuller and even more joyful existence!

[Evanna Momtaj · Rating 3 out of 5]

I feel like this book is very helpful, it provides some good strategies on helping build yourself up if you feel stuck.

I do feel like it was a little too wordy, like the author was trying to make the word count or something so certain messages got lost.

Recommend buying over checking out from the library because if you’re actively using the techniques in this book you’ll want to keep a copy to look back on.

[Amri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Practical Optimism" by Dr. Sue Varma is a remarkable book that delivers both warmth and wisdom in a way that feels like a comforting conversation with a close friend. Dr. Varma, who was an incredible speaker at HeyMama’s Strong Like A Mama" event, beautifully translates her insightful approach to self-compassion and optimism into a guide that is as practical as it is uplifting. Dr. Varma encourages us to challenge negative thoughts and behaviors while fostering a strong, intrinsic sense of self-worth. Her writing style is engaging and easy to absorb, making complex concepts feel approachable. Whether you're looking to overcome self-doubt, simply bring more positivity into your life or reach audacious life goals, "Practical Optimism" provides the tools and motivation to help you find success.

[Kate Younkin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this one! I’d recommend that you get a hard copy for notes, I was really missing that with my audiobook.

I will definitely read this book again once I can get my hands on a physical copy. It had a lot of great ideas to put into daily practice to achieve a more general, positive outlook on life.

[Kara Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good actionable tips on being more optimistic

[Emmagwbooksrule! · Rating 1 out of 5]

Just felt like useless information kinda common sense.

[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the most comprehensive and well written book on self-care and compassion I have ever read. Easy to read, well reasoned and researched, yet clear and actionable advice to enhance anyone's quality of life, no matter what your starting point. I highly recommend this book.

[DeadWhiteRabbit · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is great even if you are mentally drowning and little steps forward seem unattainable. I recommend beginning with, “The Mountain Is You,” then reading this one.

Varma approaches positivity from the point of a therapist; with the perspective that mental wellness and a positive outlook are interconnected. By approaching how to improve your life through releasing the shame based ideas we have collected during our lives and rewriting our mental script.

Dr. Varma also fills pages with step-by-step lists for improving your life in a way that is attainable. I ended up purchasing a physical copy so that I can refer back.

**crossposted on storygraph**

[Elizabeth]

As heard on Listening to The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos (Can You Become a "Practical" Optimist?)

There are many benefits to being an optimist - particularly when things go wrong in our lives. But we aren't all naturally optimistic, so can we learn to adopt the best and most positive behaviours of born optimists?

Through treating New Yorkers caught up in the 9/11 attacks, psychiatrist Dr Sue Varma developed a concept she calls "practical optimism". She shares her tips on how we can all be more optimistic in the face of life's challenges. 

Read more in Sue's book Practical Optimism: The Art, Science, and Practice of Exceptional Well-Being  

Get ad-free episodes to The Happiness Lab by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks, exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. 

Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkin
Subscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plus

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

https://omny.fm/shows/the-happiness-l...

[Amy Lea · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you’re depressed or inherently pessimistic I think this book would be a great help. It shows the reader that optimism isn’t just naive or idealistic. And, even though some are born with the mindset, it can be learned. She shares some examples from her patients for her reader to identify with that are helpful for some I’m sure. Personally, I most enjoyed hearing about her father’s life and the culture she experienced with her family in India.

I thought it was a decent read. But after about 200 pages it got a little repetitive with CBT practices. Once or twice, I did consider DNFing to read something new to me. There were some good reminders and interesting factoids along the way, but overall nothing super revolutionary. The secret to practical optimism seems to comparable to good mental health: mastery, movement, meaningful engagement, and mindfulness. Regular mental health practices like “the 4 M’s” help shift your outlook towards optimism, even if it doesn’t come naturally. One learns to accept the situation, persevere, and do the best you can.

My favorite part of the book, was the following acronym for GRACE:
Gratitude for the Good
Recognition of Reality
Acceptance of Imperfection
Compassion for Yourself
Empathy for Others

[Chris Boutté · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was surprisingly good. It’s sort of a generic self-help mental health book, but I love the unique angle of developing optimism. I’m the type who thinks that too much optimism can be a bad thing, and depressive realism is sometimes the way to go, but there’s a balance. I think that Sue Varma does a great job balancing the two by teaching the reader how to develop optimism while also being realistic about the world.

Varma provides a ton of studies as well as personal stories of working with patients throughout the book. She helps you understand how you can retrain your brain to look for solutions rather than focusing solely on the problems, and I love that.

[Sarah Cupitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Took me a while to realise PO was referring to practical optimism and not a bloody PO purchase order. This actually had some good pointers albeit felt more like CBT than PO. Note to self: Self-worth is different from self-esteem.

Notes:
- Optimists are often lumped together with people who are in blissful denial about life’s many challenges and problems.
- practical optimism doesn’t shy away from reality.
- Sue's story (It started with a health scare that led her to explore the power of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Through this therapy, she not only overcame her physical symptoms but also gained tools to manage her stress effectively.) so ah... we're all living the same life huh
- PO emphasizes that your purpose can stem from various aspects of your life and may evolve. And, importantly, it doesn’t require outside validation.
- There are three ways PO can improve your quality of life: by helping you to manage your emotions, solve problems effectively, and improve your sense of self-worth.
- Varma suggests a four-step approach: name it, tame it, claim it, and reframe it. This involves recognizing your emotions as physical sensations, delving into their root causes, employing strategies to manage them, and reframing them from a more positive perspective.
- Naming your emotions is also called affect labeling. It’s basically the opposite of suppressing them. For example, if you have fear or anxiety about a goal you’re working toward, don’t try to avoid it. Instead, acknowledge it, name it, and then try to tame it by recognizing the trigger and where this emotion comes from. Doing this will enhance your emotional awareness.
- The 5 Rs are: reassess, refuel, request input, remind, and reappraise.
- Another trait that can help in these situations is known as healthy pride. This involves recognizing your inherent self-worth. It acknowledges strengths, but also imperfections. It’s a way of practicing self-compassion and promoting growth and positive action.
- You can practice self-compassion by using this four-step process: observe, contextualize, normalize, and act.
- proficiency is composed of two active states: self-efficacy expectations and outcome expectations.
- it’s essential to recognize and avoid the three primary cognitive traps: rumination, worry, and comparison.
- 30 years ago, 33 percent of Americans could count ten or more people as being close friends. These days, that number has fallen to just 13 percent.
- Understanding attachment styles, such as avoidant and anxious, can provide insight into how we relate to others. (it's like this book was meant for sandra's workshop series. The avoidant attachment style is characterized by distrust. The anxious attachment style is characterized by a craving for connection.
- Mastery is a dedication to improvement. Adopting a growth mindset and committing yourself to a life of learning and development.
- At its core are the eight pillars – or Ps – purpose, processing emotions, problem-solving, pride, proficiency, present, people, and practicing healthy habits.

Action points:
- Ask yourself, How did I get to where I am now? Do I have any regrets? How can I put these regrets away by learning from my disappointments and using that knowledge?
- Next, identify your sources of meaning and joy. Then ask yourself, How can I add more of that into my life?
- The final step is to take proactive steps toward a more purposeful life that contains more of that meaning and joy. Ask yourself, Are there mentors I can reach out to?

[Heidi Dumke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Varma brings a wealth of experience to her book, which she frames as a practical toolkit for resilience. At its core are eight pillars: Purpose, Processing Emotions, Problem-Solving, Pride, Proficiency, Present, People, and Practicing Healthy Habits. Early on, she includes a questionnaire that helps readers assess their needs and pinpoint which pillars deserve the most attention.

For me, four pillars stood out: Problem-Solving, Present, People, and Practicing Healthy Habits. As I’ve stepped away from the classroom to be a stay-at-home mom with my one-year-old, these felt especially relevant. In Problem-Solving, I found strategies that boosted my confidence in navigating daily challenges and regulating emotions, along with helpful insights on Maximizers and Satisficers. In Present, her tools for managing anxiety were both calming and practical, and they prompted me to reflect on my fragmented attention and relationship with technology. I’ll never forget her anecdote about a café in Portugal with a sign that read: “Where the Wi-Fi is low, the connection is high.” Her discussion of People, especially through the lens of attachment theory (something I've been learning more about) was a great addition, while Practicing Healthy Habits reminded me that small, consistent choices add up.

What I appreciated most is Varma’s framing of “practical optimism” as it is grounded in intentionality, care, and everyday choices that lift us up. This book has pushed my thinking in meaningful ways, and I know I’ll return to it often.

[Asia · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Practical Optimism" by Dr. Sue Varma is a gem of a book for anyone looking to transform their mindset and embrace a more positive outlook on life. What struck me most about this book was its simplicity and the incredibly useful tools it offers. Each chapter provides clear, actionable advice that is easy to apply in daily life, making the concept of changing one's thought patterns feel accessible and manageable.

I was genuinely surprised by the amount of practical wisdom packed into these pages. The strategies are not only based on sound psychological principles but are also presented in a way that resonates with everyday experiences. Knowing there is another way to think and react to life's challenges is immensely empowering. This book serves as a reminder that small changes in our thinking can lead to significant improvements in our overall well-being.

For anyone feeling stuck or overwhelmed by negativity, "Practical Optimism" offers a breath of fresh air and a new lens through which to view the world. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking to enhance their mental health with tools that are not only effective but easy to integrate into daily routines. Dr. Varma has crafted a guide that is bound to make a lasting impact on its readers, guiding them towards a more optimistic and fulfilling life.

[Israa Nasir · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Practical Optimism," Sue Varma offers readers an engaging and pragmatic approach to facing life’s challenges using the science and psychology of the optimism mindset.

Varma's writing is warm, relatable and down-to-earth, making complex psychological concepts accessible to everyone. One of the book's strengths lies in its emphasis on practicality. Varma doesn't just preach the benefits of optimism as an abstract, hard-to-attain ideal nor does she make a case for denying reality. Instead, she provides concrete strategies and actionable advice for incorporating optimism into everyday life’s challenges.

Throughout the book, Varma weaves together insights from psychology, neuroscience, her own experiences, and personal development literature, creating a holistic framework for cultivating practical optimism. She shares personal anecdotes, case studies, and real-life examples, demonstrating how optimism can transform challenges into opportunities for positive change and empowerment.

Varma's practical wisdom and compassionate approach make this book valuable for personal growth and transformation; and is a timely resource for anyone facing emotional difficulties in today’s complex world. As a therapist myself, I know I will be recommending Practical Optimism to my clients.

[Sandy Pace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Practical Optimism by Dr. Sue Varma is an insightful and refreshing take on the true meaning of positivity. Rather than pushing toxic positivity or unrealistic expectations, Varma provides a balanced, grounded perspective on approaching life’s challenges with a healthy mindset. Her ability to combine science-backed research with practical tools makes this book stand out, making it both accessible and empowering.

My key takeaway from Practical Optimism is that optimism isn’t about ignoring problems or always being cheerful. Instead, Varma encourages readers to adopt a mindset that recognizes setbacks while focusing on solutions. Her message is clear: positivity can coexist with acknowledging life’s difficulties. This approach resonates deeply, providing an attainable and authentic framework, especially for those navigating mental health challenges or simply wanting to lead a more fulfilled life.

I highly recommend Practical Optimism to anyone seeking a realistic yet hopeful guide to reframing their outlook, fostering resilience, and embracing positivity in a sustainable and true way.

[Zenobia Dotiwala · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether you are a born or learned optimist, whether or not you have done therapy, inner-work, or are spiritual or not- this book is for you. This book is for everyone. This books goes deep without being heavy; it explains complex concepts simply, and most importantly, I bet anyone reading this book will say-"I can do that!" Give yourself the gift of this book or give it to a loved one. Dr. Varma sounds clear, methodical, and resourceful. She writes from a beautiful blend of her own experience growing up, with her training, research, and experience. Her empathy and deep understanding shine through. If I wrote about every single thing I liked, I would have to write a whole book of my review. I found myself either constantly learning and having 'aha' moments, or resonating and nodding my head. There are so many mini-gems in this book like 'Not everything bad that happens is our fault. Not everything good that happens is to our credit'. I mean, how liberating. It's like, letting go, but in both circumstances, good or bad. Or here's another one- 'Is it a problem to be fixed, or a truth to be accepted.' I cannot wait to read it again! Thank you for this book, Dr. Varma.

[Katia Villevald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall a great book that promotes the holistic health benefits of having an optimistic mindset. The tips in it are probably not totally new but I really liked the way they were organized with some self assessments sprinkled throughout. The practical examples and demonstration of how her patients used this mindset to transform their situations made the content of this book feel more practical (lol) and inspirational seeing how it helped people already.

Some tips that resonated with me -
1. The idea of treating anything you want to procrastinate on as an opportunity to grow. (Takes the pressure of the outcome out of the picture and focuses on the purpose of the process).
2. Treat emotions like passing by visitors. (Not identifying myself with my emotions and knowing any uncomfortable ones will pass as they always do)
3. There are multiple forms of rest and it’s important to use the one that that fits the area you’re trying to recharge. (I liked the breakdown or rest into physical rest, mental/sensory rest and social-emotional rest with tips on how to recharge each area).

Would recommend!

[Benjamin Camras · Rating 5 out of 5]

Practical Optimism is a phenomenal book that should be read by everyone! The insights and perspectives in the pages are invaluable and have changed my life. I first learned about Dr. Varma on the Brightside Podcast a couple of years ago, and I felt like I was hearing a conversation about optimism and happiness that I had never heard before. For my whole life, I had been told "to just be happy," that "happiness is a choice" and to just "be grateful for what you have." Dr. Varma has elevated these concepts to a whole new level in Practical Optimism, and finally, I feel like I have the understanding to see optimism not as a predisposition or something that I have to earn. Rather, it's a practice. Practical optimism is about changing the relationship I have with my own happiness and expanding the idea of what happiness is, what it looks like, and what it feels like. I'll be forever grateful to this book and to Dr. Varma for doing the work she does! I highly recommend keeping a copy on your bookshelves, it's a book I go back to over and over again!

[Tali Lando · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Powerful “Practical” Guide for Anyone Fighting to Rise Again

As a surgeon, I’m trained to handle pressure, to show up in moments of crisis, and to lead through uncertainty. But nothing prepared me for the personal storms I would face my own battle with advanced breast cancer and the devastating loss of a parent to the same more deadly disease (GBM). Practical Optimism felt like it was written for people exactly like me—those who have been brought to their knees and are still determined to rise.
What resonated most was Dr. Varma’s beautiful insight: “Flourishing is more than bouncing back from adversity, it’s thriving in the face of it.” This book doesn’t sugarcoat the hardships, and it doesn’t rely on blind positivity. Instead, it offers a grounded, actionable mindset that helped me reframe what it means to embody resilience, to keep going, and to build a life that’s not just “after” hardship, but flourishing because of it.
Practical Optimism is not just a book—it’s a guide, a mirror, and a gentle but firm nudge toward the light. I’m deeply grateful for it.

[Jon · Rating 2 out of 5]

Conflicted about leaving this review. I have started exploring consumer texts to make recommendations for clients and wanted to learn some pearls for myself. I found the book to be difficult to follow, disorganized, and a potpourri of academic psych(iatry/ology) schools of thought mixed with pop psychology. Much of the book, primarily in the first ~75 pages, is dedicated to selling the concept despite the reader having already bought the book and having it in their hand. I think making a proprietary school of thought / rebranding existing concepts made this book confusing. I found myself trying to learn what the concepts were based off of while keeping the rebranded/modified concepts in the forefront of my mind. For better or worse, this genre is very crowded. I appreciate the effort it must have taken to be an expert in all of these schools of thought and organizing them in a way that might connect with other readers.

[Grant Brenner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Varma has accomplished a Herculean feat with Practical Optimism.

Given the number of books on how to approach various problems of living, Dr. Varma's synthesis of science and wisdom is all the more impressive in standing out from the pack. Having known her for many years, I'm pleased to see her bring together her decades of experience in a format anyone can access. Very much worth taking a moment to search her up online and hear her speak on various subjects.

Approachable without being overly simplistic, Dr. Varma presents a coherent and systematic framework to weave together pragmatic and useful approaches without leaning on simplistic positive psychology tropes.

Beyond that, she provides a wealth of actionable information designed expertly for understanding, and tools to put effective changes into play right away - and build on them over time for people motivated to live full and satisfied lives.

[Jean-paul Audouy · Rating 5 out of 5]

"If it's not a problem to be solved, perhaps it's a truth to be accepted”

I thought it might be difficult to write a honest review of a book written by a friend (even a distant one). I shouldn’t have worried.
This is not your regular self help book with its simplistic recipes and à la mode theories. And not just a manuel but at times a novel too. About the author’s and some of her patients’ lives, struggles and new found freedoms.
This book feels like a benevolent friend whispering in your ears truths you had always known would help you lead a better life but blocked because you thought they’d require too much effort. Suddenly, well being seems within reach and changing your ways for more virtuous and healthier attitudes might even bring pleasure. Who would have guessed? And if realistically you’ll never be a perfect human being leading a perfect life (who does?), you might smile more often at accepting your limitations and enjoying your achievements, big and small.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Sue Varma’s “Practical Optimism” is an exceptional guide to mental health, masterfully combining scientific rigor with practical advice. Dr. Varma distills complex psychological concepts into actionable steps, providing readers with reliable and sustainable strategies to improve their mental well-being. Her clear and engaging writing makes the material accessible, empowering readers to take control of their mental health with confidence.

What sets this book apart is Dr. Varma’s balanced approach to optimism, acknowledging the reality of negative emotions while teaching how to reframe thoughts positively. Filled with compelling anecdotes and real-life examples, the book offers a holistic view of mental health that includes mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and lifestyle adjustments. “Practical Optimism” is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to enhance their mental resilience and cultivate a hopeful outlook on life.

[Satish · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Transformative Guide to Positive Living!

Dr. Sue Varma’s Practical Optimism is an absolute game-changer! This book combines deep psychological insights with actionable advice, making it a must-read for anyone looking to cultivate a mindset of resilience and positivity in today's fast-paced world. Dr. Varma effortlessly blends science with personal anecdotes, offering readers not just theoretical knowledge, but real, practical tools to integrate optimism into daily life.

What stands out is the author’s ability to take complex psychological concepts and break them down in a relatable, easy-to-understand way. Her compassionate, empathetic voice makes you feel like you're having a heart-to-heart conversation with a trusted friend. From stress management strategies to reframing negative thinking patterns, Practical Optimismoffers a comprehensive roadmap to living with more joy and less anxiety.