Good News for Pessimists: You're Probably Better Off Than the Rest of Us

Updated 6/19/2020

This School of Life video argues that a healthy dose of pessimism can benefit your mental and emotional health—leading to eventual career success.

For all the pessimists out there: You’re right. Sometimes.

Yes, I’m going to argue that being pessimistic can have its advantages. It keeps your expectations in check, prepares you for disappointment, and guess what—it may even make you happier in the long run. And this video will tell you why.

So I’m going to let you be moody today. You can thank me later.

Photo of person on dock courtesy of Shutterstock.

Previously an editor for The Muse, Alyse is proud to prove that yes, English majors can change the world. She’s written almost 500 articles for The Muse on anything from productivity tips to cover letters to bad bosses to cool career changers, many of which have been featured in Fast Company, Forbes, Inc., CNBC's Make It, USA Today College, Lifehacker, Mashable, and more. In addition to being an avid writer and reader, Alyse loves to dance, both professionally and while waiting for the subway. You can follow her work on her website, Twitter, or LinkedIn.