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"Without optimism, you are never going to find the solution. If you don't believe a solution is there, you're never going to find it. So, the first step is having the tools to find that solution and having the vision, which is an optimistic outlook." – Dr. Danielle Kent
In this episode of That Optimism Man, we dive deep into the science and lived experience behind optimism with Dr Danielle Kent, a leading researcher in behavioural finance from the University of Sydney.
"The Optimism Effect" and Dr Danielle Kent's Learned Optimism
That Optimism Man Victor Perton
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Danielle's work shines a light on how optimism is the key driver of investment formation, productivity, innovation, and national success. As Dr. Kent explains, optimism shapes how we navigate challenges as individuals, businesses, and nations.
In our conversation, we explore Dr Kent's transformative research on what she calls The Optimism Effect, a phenomenon proving that optimism—particularly producer optimism—directly influences investment, innovation, and productivity and drives economic growth.
From her study of 42 countries, we learn that when businesses and nations are relatively optimistic, they are more likely to invest in research and development and are more productive and more innovative. Producer optimism has the most powerful impact on national outcomes.
This episode also highlights Dr. Kent's journey to adopting optimism during the pandemic. Faced with uncertainty and upheaval, she turned to research-based strategies, transforming her mindset and her life, culminating in major decisions like buying a new home. Dr. Kent’s experience shows that optimism can be learned and applied to real-life situations with profound results.
We also discuss the crucial role of long-term thinking. Dr. Kent advocates for governments to move away from short-term electoral cycles and embrace 50- or 100-year visions, encouraging future-oriented policies that foster optimism and innovation. Such a shift, she argues, is critical to tackling significant challenges like the transition to a net-zero economy.
Ultimately, this episode underscores a vital message: optimism is not just about seeing the bright side—it's about taking action, investing in the future, and believing in the solutions waiting to be found.
Tune in to hear more about The Optimism Effect and how it could be the key to unlocking innovation and success in your life and work.
What strategies do you use to maintain optimism in challenging times?
Self-Improvement • Mental Health • 38 episodes
That Optimism Man Victor Perton
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