Learned Optimism

Martin E.P. Seligman argues that optimism is a skill, not a fixed trait, and that anyone can build it. The book is non-fiction psychology and self-help, and it draws on more than twenty years of his clinical research.

Seligman starts with the habit of giving up. He then sets out simple techniques for breaking it, for changing the way a person explains their own behavior to themselves, and for shifting the inner dialogue toward a more positive one. The method is practical, built around exercises a reader can try rather than theory alone.

The benefits he points to include relief from depression, a stronger immune system, better use of a person's potential and greater happiness. He presents optimism as something that improves the quality of everyday life.

Further chapters turn to other settings. They give advice on encouraging optimistic behavior at school and at work, and on raising optimistic children. The book suits general readers at any stage of life, including parents, teachers and managers, and it reads as an accessible guide grounded in research.