Thursday, December 4, 2025
I started to pay attention to my inner world. Tracking my mental stories, I’d end up broke and destitute. When I Googled my symptoms, I was as good as dead. Is negative thinking just too simple?
When my stories ended on skid row, I’d wonder, “Is this how I want it to end?” No. Then, by day’s end, I’d prophesy the apocalypse again – living with my folks! My stories kept going down the shitter!
Why does negative thinking masquerade as “realistic,” and positive thinking masquerade as “Pollyanna simpleton?” Thinking in general is not realistic, even if you label it “realistic.” Realism is what is, here and now. Thinking is storytelling of yesterday, there, and later. Thinking is Fantasy Land. Why Scary Land? Why not Candy Land?
We may have a slant called negativity bias. But be different – tilt it in your favor, sweet flavor. God forbid our lives become magical, romantic, adventuresome, enjoyable, and surprising. God forbid we think and feel positively – that’s too simple. Wait – I thought negative thinking was simple!
To become an optimist, one must align with the magic of a simpleton who merely has hope. Most people feel it unrealistic to think you can live as you want, as you please, and with no hang ups about money, self, having a “real job,” or having responsibilities. Why can’t life be romantic and enjoyable – maybe even simply magical? Because someone told you optimism is not realistic?
If Pollyanna’s optimism is naive, then nothing can be more naive than a doomsday prophet. Both are an overexertion into a fantasy never smelled, touched, seen, tasted, or felt – the future. I’m sorry, but they are both equally as simple. I want to play Candy Land. Goodie, goodie gumdrop!
Stop Googling your symptoms. Make your story simple and sweet. If thinking in general is full of shit, then I choose Candy Land over the apocalypse.