Positive thinking is key

To make progress, we need to be able to imagine alternative realities, and not just any old reality but a better one. Positive thinking is key.

Quoting neuroscientist Tali Sharot: “Optimism starts with what may be the most extraordinary of human talents: mental time travel. That is, the ability to move back and forth through time and space in one’s mind. To think positively about our prospects, it helps to be able to imagine ourselves in the future. Although most of us take this ability for granted, our capacity to envision a different time and place is critical for our survival. It allows us to plan ahead, to save food and resources for times of scarcity, and to endure hard work in anticipation of a future reward.”