Today we’re exploring tragic optimism with Suzanne Degges-White, (PhD, LCPC, LPC, LMHC, NCC) professor and chair of the Counselling and Higher Education department at Northern Illinois University.  

In addition to her work at Northern Illinois University, Suzanne is a licensed counsellor and an academic researcher, with a strong focus on women’s relationships, developmental transitions, and the topic we dive into today – Tragic Optimism. 

Wellness culture is forever telling us to ‘think positively', that ‘we are what we think’, to adopt a ‘good vibes only’ mindset (you know the drill), but in times when clearly all is not well, this incessant pressure to look on the bright side can often cause more harm than good. 

You might have heard the term ‘toxic positivity.’ Well today, we’re going to be looking at the flipside – Tragic Optimism.  

Suzanne has spent her career researching these topics and this conversation shines a light on some of the key insights she’s uncovered along the way. Expect to learn: 

• The difference between toxic positivity and tragic optimism 
• How we can lean into discomfort rather than denying its existence 
• How we can harness tragic optimism to live happier, healthier lives 

https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/contributors/suzanne-degges-white-phd#:~:text=Suzanne%20Degges%2DWhite%2C%20PhD%2C,individuals%20and%20families%20facing%20transitions.