The Power of Detrimental Thinking in Paulo Coelho's Words

“If you want something in life the whole Universe conspires for you to get it” said Paulo Coelho. While this statement might sound appealing and hopeful, how truly practical is it in today's challenging world?

A World of Inequity and Suffering

Life is far from fair and just. Wars, sickness, and poverty are common plagues that afflict humanity. Many people desperately want what they cannot acquire. Mothers in poverty face the anguish of desperately wanting to feed their children but failing. This narrative has a darker side; it blames suffering on the sufferer, suggesting they are inferior in all aspects, including the spiritual, compared to the more privileged.

Negative Impact on Mental Health

Peer-reviewed psychological research has consistently shown that such thinking promotes dysfunctional mental states. Individuals can experience clinical levels of depression, neurosis, and an increased risk of suicidal ideation. This mindset undermines mental resilience, especially among those facing misfortune.

For the Fortunate Few

For the more fortunate individuals, this type of thinking can foster complacency, toxic pride, excessive self-congratulation, and selfishness. These traits can reduce kindness, compassion, and empathy. Moreover, it makes people more likely to engage in selfish behaviors that harm others, yet they often remain oblivious to the rot in their character, believing they are more "good" than others.

The Immature and Narcissistic Paradigm

Regardless of who benefits, this mindset fosters an immature, self-absorbed, and overly self-focused narcissism. This hyperindividualism is destructive to individuals, families, communities, and entire societies. Toxic positivity has become so popular because it aligns with our age and validates many of our worst aspects. As such, it is deeply troubling and pervasive.

Healthy Optimism vs. Toxic Positivity

While optimism is beneficial, toxic positivity can be destructive. Many psychologists and therapists, including my mother, have witnessed patients being seriously harmed by this mindset. This includes instances where toxic positivity contributed to multiple suicides. This illustrates the need to return to reality and challenge the validity of this harmful ideology.

Healthy optimism includes real hope and resilience. We should embrace the reality of challenges without succumbing to false promises. True philosophy and spirituality offer depth and substance, requiring genuine engagement and effort. These teach us valuable lessons that may not always be immediately gratifying.

Highlighting the issue of toxic positivity can be harsh, and I am indeed frustrated by its harmful spread. The impact of such false optimism is significant and widespread. It is crucial to recognize and address the harm it causes, especially to vulnerable populations.

Seeking Real Philosophy and Healthy Positive Thinking

To truly benefit from the positive aspects of life, it is essential to read and practice genuine philosophy and spirituality. Books that provide a temporary good feeling are not enough. They often create an illusion of empowerment without offering actual tools to enhance one's life. In many cases, they disempower people through emotional manipulation, leading them to believe they are being empowered.

Conclusion

If you enjoy reading such material, you may continue to do so. However, it is important not to take it too seriously. Avoid letting it guide your life, and shape your mindset or worldview. Always seek out healthy positive thinking, as it is far more effective.

Returning to genuine sources of wisdom and resilience can help us navigate the complexities of life with more insight and fortitude.