Books The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking

The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking by Oliver Burkeman explores a counterintuitive approach to happiness, arguing that the constant pursuit of positive thinking can actually lead to anxiety and unhappiness. Burkeman introduces various individuals and philosophies—including experimental psychologists, Buddhists, and ancient Greek philosophers—who advocate for embracing negativity, uncertainty, and the worst-case scenario as a path to a more stable and dependable sense of calm and well-being. The book suggests that rituals and structures, rather than forced optimism, can provide a more effective framework for navigating life's challenge