A Slight Change of Plans

How to Stay Hopeful (When It Feels Impossible)

42 snips
Nov 3, 2025
Jamil Zaki, a psychology professor at Stanford and author of "Hope for Cynics," dives into the contrasts between cynicism and hope. He discusses how cynicism undermines personal and social well-being, revealing its emotional toll. Jamil introduces the concept of “hopeful skepticism,” emphasizing its role in resilience and successful goal achievement. He shares strategies like connecting with core values and practicing social savoring to combat cynicism. Ultimately, he encourages gradual habit changes to nurture hope in both personal lives and communities.
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ANECDOTE

Capitol Insurrection Shook His Convictions

  • Jamil started drafting an optimism talk on Jan 6, 2021 and watched the Capitol insurrection unfold.
  • That moment exposed the gap between his research-based beliefs and his gut cynicism.
INSIGHT

Cynicism Blocks Social Nourishment

  • Cynicism undermines the physiological benefits of social support, like buffering blood pressure.
  • Jamil cites a lab study where supportive strangers eased stress for non-cynics but not for cynics.
INSIGHT

Cynicism Feels Wise But Isn't

  • People assume cynics are wiser or better at spotting liars, but research contradicts that.
  • Cynics perform worse on cognitive tests and are worse at detecting deception than non-cynics.
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