Practical Optimism

Praise

A Next Big Idea Club Must-Read Book for February 2024

“In Practical Optimism Dr. Varma distills an expansive body of research into clear, relatable, and actionable guidance. This book is a must read for anyone who wants to move from surviving to thriving.”
– Lisa Damour, PhD, New York Times bestselling author of Untangled, Under Pressure, and The Emotional Lives of Teenagers
 
“Essential reading, and full of tools to help us move through challenges and embrace the possibility around us. Dr. Sue Varma shows us that practical optimism is a muscle we can build and continue to strengthen—and it can absolutely transform our lives.”
– Judson Brewer, MD, New York Times bestselling author of Unwinding Anxiety
 
“Practical Optimism beautifully weaves science and art, research and storytelling, theory and practice. Sue Varma provides us with a compass that can help us navigate our complex and demanding reality.”  
– Tal Ben Shahar, New York Times bestselling author of Happier
 
“Sue is as authentic as they come. This book is insightful, smart, and so much cheaper than therapy.”
– Jenny Mollen, New York Times bestselling author of Live Fast Die Hot

“As an Olympic athlete, Practical Optimism appeals to me on so many levels. It doesn’t just try to fix what’s broken but teaches you how to go beyond to cultivate the next level mindset and your own greatness. Inspirational, realistic, achievable, and transformational… whether you are at a crossroads, looking to make small changes, or are reaching for a big goal, this book will help you get there in record time.”
– Tara Lipinski, Olympic gold medalist and broadcaster
 
“Substantive and powerful. Dr. Sue Varma offers us a science-based, step-by-step framework for finding optimism, even in the most difficult of circumstances. This book goes deeper than resilience — it’s about how to embrace the breaks in life and allow them to lead us to greater beauty.”
– Suneel Gupta, author of Everyday Dharma and Backable
 
“Sue Varma has given us an approachable and well researched book that integrates the best of science and experience. Given the shortage of mental health professionals this singular and approachable resource a great place to start for many.”
– Kenneth Duckworth, MD, CMO of National Alliance on Mental Illness and author of the national bestseller You Are Not Alone
 
“Practical Optimism is an exceptional guide to moving through the trauma of life and relationships. Deeply wise, and rooted in Dr. Varma’s clinical work, her own personal experience, and the latest research, it is an essential and inspiring resource to help us all build a critical resource: our inner strength.”
– Eric Manheimer, MD, Clinical Professor NYU School of Medicine, writer, producer and author of Twelve Patients

“Get ready to feel inspired as you learn how to overcome obstacles, build genuine relationships, and create a future filled with hope and possibility.” 
– Kimberly Rae Miller, bestselling author of Coming Clean
 
“Studded with catchy pearls of wisdom (‘Our self-worth exists simply because we do’), this can-do guide uplifts.”
– Publishers Weekly