126: Breaking the Cycle of Toxic Positivity: From Dismissal to Deep Listening

In this episode, we are going to have a heartfelt conversation about toxic positivity—how it’s different from healthy optimism and how it can inadvertently shut down the very people we want to support. We’ll explore the harm caused by well-meaning platitudes that dismiss or minimize real pain. You’ll hear honest reflections on how insisting that someone “look on the bright side” or focus on “gratitude” can deepen their isolation, making them feel unseen and unheard. None of us are immune: sometimes, we’ve been on the receiving end of toxic positivity, and sometimes, we’ve dished it out simply because we didn’t know what else to say.

But this conversation doesn’t stop at pointing out the problem—it offers a roadmap toward deeper compassion, connection, and genuine emotional presence. We’ll find practical ways to sit with discomfort instead of rushing to fix or gloss over it and how to gently speak up when someone’s overly positive approach feels hurtful. True acceptance allows us to hold space for all parts of ourselves and others—whether we’re feeling strong, scared, angry, or anything in between. By the end of the episode, my hope is that you’ll feel encouraged to explore your own habits, communicate your needs more openly, and cultivate healthier, more authentic relationships.

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