Best of Series | The Impact of Trauma on Our Ability to Think Positively

Permission to Love with Jerry Henderson

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In this series "The Best of the Permission to Love Podcast" we revisit one of the most impactful episodes The Impact of Trauma on Our Ability to Think Positively."
This episode delves into the roots of negative thinking, clarifies the difference between authentic positivity and toxic positivity, and outlines practical steps to retrain the brain toward a healthier, more uplifting mindset.
We also discuss the importance of acknowledging our emotions, addressing trauma responses, and learning to feel safe in the present moment so that positive thinking can emerge naturally. By the end, listeners gain actionable tools such as writing down three positive things each day and practicing gratitude to reshape their mental patterns.

Key Topics Covered:

• Understanding the impact of trauma on positive thinking
• Differentiating between toxic positivity and genuine positivity
• Overcoming survival-based negative thought patterns
• Using visualization and self-observation to manage intrusive thoughts
• Building new neural pathways toward a positive mindset
• Incorporating daily gratitude and emotional engagement
• Embracing compassion, patience, and self-love on the healing journey

Timestamped Chapters

00:00 – Introduction & Overview
01:14 – Defining Positive Thinking: What It Is and What It Isn’t
02:15 – The Power of Positive Thinking & Influence on Well-Being
02:49 – Focus, Attention & Energy: How Thoughts Shape Outcomes
03:28 – Judgment, Manifestation & False Positivity
04:42 – Clarifying Concepts: Authentic Positivity vs. Toxic Positivity
05:11 – Finding Unique Solutions: Tailoring Practices to Your Needs
06:29 – Allowing Emotions & Not Getting Trapped in Negativity
08:32 – Studies on Realism, Optimism & Happiness
09:59 – Honoring Reality While Cultivating Positivity
10:34 – Embracing Gratitude & The Present Moment
12:48 – Trauma’s Impact on Positive Thinking & Survival Mechanisms
13:24 – People-Pleasing, Impostor Feelings & False Positivity
15:19 – Catastrophizing & Survival-Driven Negative Patterns
16:41 – Anticipating the Worst & Struggling to Relax into the Present
18:26 – Negative Self-Perception & Trauma Response
19:37 – Reclaiming Control: You Are Not Your Thoughts
20:58 – Creating Safety & Rewiring the Nervous System
23:19 – Overcoming Red Alert Mode & Allowing Positive Thinking
24:11 – Assigning Your Brain a New Job: Looking for the Positive
25:11 – The “Blue Car” Effect & Redirecting Attention
26:17 – Practical Exercise: Three Positive Things Each Day
28:08 – Rewiring Through Emo

I am grateful you are here,
Jerry
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