The Optimistic Child

In "The Optimistic Child," psychologist Martin Seligman reveals the transformative power of cultivating optimism in children. Drawing on groundbreaking research, he outlines how a positive mindset can enhance resilience, boost academic performance, and improve emotional well-being. Through engaging anecdotes and practical strategies, Seligman empowers parents and educators to instill a sense of hope and agency in young minds. As he uncovers the science behind optimism, you’ll discover tools to combat negativity and nurture a brighter outlook. Dive into this enlightening journey and unlock the potential for happiness and success in the children you care about most!

By Martin Seligman

Published: 2011

The Optimistic ChildBook binding

Start Listening

Play Preview

You might also like →

The Stoic Challenge: A Philosopher's Guide to Becoming Tougher, Calmer, and More ResilientBook binding

The Stoic Challenge: A Philosopher's Guide to Becoming Tougher, Calmer, and More Resilient

William B. Irvine

No-Drama DisciplineBook binding

No-Drama Discipline

Daniel J. Siegel, Tina Payne Bryson

Baby 411Book binding

Baby 411

Ari Brown, Denise Fields

The Gentle Sleep BookBook binding

The Gentle Sleep Book

Sarah Ockwell-Smith

Unconditional ParentingBook binding

Unconditional Parenting

Alfie Kohn

The Attachment Parenting BookBook binding

The Attachment Parenting Book

William Sears, Martha Sears

The 5 Love Languages of ChildrenBook binding

The 5 Love Languages of Children

Gary Chapman, Ross Campbell

The Black PrismBook binding

The Black Prism

Brent Weeks

The Way We Live NowBook binding

The Way We Live Now

Anthony Trollope

The Code Book: The Secrets Behind CodebreakingBook binding

The Code Book: The Secrets Behind Codebreaking

Simon Singh

Parenting with Love and LogicBook binding

Parenting with Love and Logic

Foster Cline, Jim Fay

The Yes BrainBook binding

The Yes Brain

Daniel J. Siegel, Tina Payne Bryson

The Blessing Of A Skinned KneeBook binding

The Blessing Of A Skinned Knee

Wendy Mogel

Parenting from the Inside OutBook binding

Parenting from the Inside Out

Daniel J. Siegel, MD, Mary Hartzell

Do Fathers Matter?Book binding

Do Fathers Matter?

Paul Raeburn

How Toddlers ThriveBook binding

How Toddlers Thrive

Tovah P Klein

Parenting Beyond Belief- Abridged Ebook EditionBook binding

Parenting Beyond Belief- Abridged Ebook Edition

The Mindful ChildBook binding

The Mindful Child

Susan Kaiser Greenland

The Power of Positive ParentingBook binding

The Power of Positive Parenting

Matthew R. Sanders, Trevor G. Mazzucchelli

Parenting with PresenceBook binding

Parenting with Presence

Susan Stiffelman, MFT

The Parent TrapBook binding

The Parent Trap

Nate G. Hilger

Positive ParentingBook binding

Positive Parenting

Rebecca Eanes

The Optimistic ChildBook binding

The Optimistic Child

Martin Seligman

Positive Parenting Solutions SimplifiedBook binding

Positive Parenting Solutions Simplified

Arun Raj Valiyapurakkal

UntangledBook binding

Untangled

Lisa Damour, Ph.D.

The Better Angels of Our NatureBook binding

The Better Angels of Our Nature

Steven Pinker

Wherever You Go, There You AreBook binding

Wherever You Go, There You Are

Jon Kabat-Zinn

A New EarthBook binding

A New Earth

Eckhart Tolle

Book Collections you might like →

Darya Rose's Book Recommendations

Darya Rose's Book Recommendations

Darya Rose is a celebrated author and neuroscientist known for her influential work in the field of nutrition and healthy living. She gained widespread acclaim for her book *Foodist: Using Real Food and Real Science to Lose Weight Without Dieting*, which offers a science-based approach to weight management and healthy eating. Rose holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of California, San Francisco, which lends credibility to her evidence-based recommendations. In addition to her writing, she is the creator of the popular blog Summer Tomato, where she shares insights on food, health, and lifestyle. Rose's work has inspired many to adopt more mindful and sustainable eating habits, making a significant impact on the wellness community.

View Collection
Ina May Gaskin's Book Recommendations

Ina May Gaskin's Book Recommendations

Ina May Gaskin is a midwife and author renowned for her advocacy of natural childbirth. She is the founder of The Farm Midwifery Center in Tennessee and the author of Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth, which has inspired generations of women to embrace natural birth practices. Gaskin’s work focuses on empowering women with knowledge and confidence during childbirth, advocating for a holistic and less medicalized approach to labor and delivery. Her influence in the field of midwifery has been profound, helping to reshape modern perspectives on childbirth.

View Collection
Julian Shapiro's Book Recommendations

Julian Shapiro's Book Recommendations

Julian Shapiro is a renowned writer and entrepreneur, acclaimed for his insightful essays on personal growth and marketing strategies. He is the author of "The Julian Shapiro Collection," a compilation of his most impactful writings that have garnered a wide readership online. Shapiro co-founded the growth marketing agency Bell Curve, where he has helped numerous startups achieve exponential growth. His work often blends practical advice with deep philosophical inquiries, making complex subjects accessible to a broad audience. Through his prolific writing and entrepreneurial ventures, Julian has become a key figure in the intersection of business and self-improvement literature.

View Collection
Lex Fridman's Book Recommendations

Lex Fridman's Book Recommendations

Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.

View Collection
Alexis Ohanian's Book Recommendations

Alexis Ohanian's Book Recommendations

Alexis Ohanian is an American entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Reddit, one of the world’s most popular social news and discussion platforms. Ohanian is also a prominent advocate for open internet and net neutrality, and he has invested in numerous startups through his venture capital firm, Initialized Capital. In addition to his work in tech, Ohanian is involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to women’s rights, education, and social justice. He is married to tennis star Serena Williams, and together they advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership. Ohanian’s influence in the tech world and his commitment to social impact have made him a respected figure in both business and activism.

View Collection
Shonda Rhimes's Book Recommendations

Shonda Rhimes's Book Recommendations

Shonda Rhimes is an American television producer, screenwriter, and author, best known for creating hit shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder. As one of the most powerful women in Hollywood, Rhimes has redefined the television landscape with her diverse storytelling and strong female characters. She has built an empire under her production company, Shondaland, and signed a groundbreaking deal with Netflix to produce exclusive content. Rhimes is also an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry, using her platform to push for greater representation on screen and behind the scenes.

View Collection
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.

View Collection
Dr. Harvey Karp's Book Recommendations

Dr. Harvey Karp's Book Recommendations

Dr. Harvey Karp is a renowned pediatrician and child development expert, best known for his groundbreaking method for calming infants, as detailed in The Happiest Baby on the Block. He is the creator of the SNOO Smart Sleeper, a robotic crib designed to help babies sleep safely and soundly. Dr. Karp has been a leading voice in pediatric health for decades, emphasizing the importance of sleep for both babies and parents. His methods have revolutionized infant care and parenting techniques. He continues to advocate for improved early childhood development practices.

View Collection
Simon Sinek's Book Recommendations

Simon Sinek's Book Recommendations

Simon Sinek is a motivational speaker, leadership expert, and bestselling author, best known for his book Start with Why, which explores how great leaders inspire action by focusing on purpose. His concept of the “Golden Circle” has been adopted by leaders and organizations worldwide to create more engaged and motivated teams. Sinek’s TED Talk on leadership, How Great Leaders Inspire Action, is one of the most popular of all time. He also authored Leaders Eat Last and The Infinite Game, focusing on building trust, empathy, and long-term success in leadership. Sinek continues to be a leading voice in leadership and organizational development.

View Collection
Natalie Portman's Book Recommendations

Natalie Portman's Book Recommendations

Natalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress, director, and activist known for her diverse roles in films such as Black Swan, V for Vendetta, and Jackie. Beyond her successful acting career, Portman is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, animal rights, and environmental causes. She has a degree from Harvard University, where she studied psychology, and is known for her intellect as well as her artistic talent. Natalie has also directed and produced films and is a vocal supporter of the Time’s Up and #MeToo movements, advocating for gender equality in the entertainment industry.

View Collection
James Clear's Book Recommendations

James Clear's Book Recommendations

James Clear is the author of the bestselling book Atomic Habits, which focuses on the power of small habits and incremental improvements to achieve significant personal and professional growth. Clear’s writing blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and productivity to provide practical strategies for building better habits. His work has helped millions of people create positive changes in their lives by focusing on the process rather than the outcome. James’s clear, actionable advice has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of personal development.

View Collection
Nir Eyal's Book Recommendations

Nir Eyal's Book Recommendations

Nir Eyal is an accomplished author and behavioral design expert, best known for his two best-selling books, "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products" and "Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life." With a background in psychology and business, he has significantly influenced the fields of product design and personal productivity. Eyal's work has been featured in major publications such as The Harvard Business Review and The New York Times. He frequently speaks at industry conferences and workshops, sharing insights on how technology can be ethically designed to benefit users. Eyal also teaches at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design.

View Collection
Howard Stern's Book Recommendations

Howard Stern's Book Recommendations

Howard Stern is a renowned American radio and television personality, best known for his groundbreaking work on "The Howard Stern Show," which revolutionized the radio industry with its candid and often controversial content. He is also a successful author, with his autobiographical books, "Private Parts" (1993) and "Miss America" (1995), both becoming bestsellers and earning critical acclaim for their raw and humorous insights into his life and career. Stern's literary contributions extend to his 2019 book, "Howard Stern Comes Again," which features a collection of his most compelling interviews and personal reflections. His ability to blend entertainment with deeply personal storytelling has cemented his status as a significant figure in modern media and literature. Stern's influence continues to resonate, reflecting his unique voice and fearless approach to both broadcasting and writing.

View Collection
Steven Pinker's Book Recommendations

Steven Pinker's Book Recommendations

Steven Pinker is a Canadian-American cognitive psychologist, linguist, and author, best known for his work on language, the mind, and human nature. Pinker has written several best-selling books, including The Better Angels of Our Nature and Enlightenment Now, where he argues that human progress is real and measurable, often citing data to show that violence, poverty, and other negative trends have been declining over time. He is also a professor at Harvard University and a frequent public intellectual who speaks on topics related to science, reason, and progress. Pinker’s optimistic view of human development has made him a leading figure in modern intellectual discourse.

View Collection
Cynthia Johnson's Book Recommendations

Cynthia Johnson's Book Recommendations

Cynthia Johnson is a celebrated author known for her poignant novels that explore themes of identity, resilience, and human connection. She gained critical acclaim with her debut novel, "Whispers in the Wind," which won the National Book Award for Fiction. Her subsequent works, including "Echoes of the Past" and "Fragments of Tomorrow," have been praised for their lyrical prose and deeply emotional narratives. Johnson's contributions extend beyond her writing, as she actively mentors emerging writers and advocates for literacy programs in underserved communities. With a career spanning over two decades, she has firmly established herself as a significant voice in contemporary literature.

View Collection
Esther Perel's Book Recommendations

Esther Perel's Book Recommendations

Esther Perel is a renowned Belgian psychotherapist and author, celebrated for her groundbreaking work in the field of relationships and sexuality. She is best known for her best-selling books "Mating in Captivity: Unlocking Erotic Intelligence" and "The State of Affairs: Rethinking Infidelity," which explore the complexities of modern love and desire. Perel's insightful TED Talks have garnered millions of views, further establishing her as a leading voice on intimacy and human connection. She also hosts the popular podcast "Where Should We Begin?" where she provides a candid look into the intricacies of couples therapy. Perel's innovative perspectives have significantly influenced contemporary discussions on relationships, making her a pivotal figure in both psychology and literature.

View Collection
Chip Conley's Book Recommendations

Chip Conley's Book Recommendations

Chip Conley is a renowned American hotelier, author, and strategic advisor celebrated for his innovative approach to hospitality and leadership. He founded Joie de Vivre Hospitality, which became the second-largest boutique hotel company in the United States, and later served as the Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy at Airbnb. Conley has authored several influential books, including "Peak: How Great Companies Get Their Mojo from Maslow" and "Wisdom@Work: The Making of a Modern Elder," which explore themes of leadership, emotional intelligence, and the intergenerational workplace. His writings have inspired many to rethink business practices and the role of wisdom in professional environments. Conley's contributions extend beyond literature, as he is a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the realms of hospitality and personal development.

View Collection
Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations

Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations

Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.

View Collection
Ali Abdaal's Book Recommendations

Ali Abdaal's Book Recommendations

Ali Abdaal is a renowned productivity expert, author, and YouTuber known for his engaging content on personal development and effective study techniques. A former doctor, Abdaal transitioned from his medical career to focus on sharing insights through his popular YouTube channel, which has amassed millions of subscribers. He is the author of "YouTube for Doctors," where he explores the intersection of medicine and digital content creation. Abdaal's work is celebrated for its practical advice, blending scientific research with personal anecdotes to help individuals optimize their lives. His contributions have significantly influenced the productivity and self-improvement community, making him a respected voice in the field.

View Collection
Claire Diaz-Ortiz's Book Recommendations

Claire Diaz-Ortiz's Book Recommendations

Claire Diaz-Ortiz is a prominent author, speaker, and technology innovator known for her influential work at Twitter, where she played a key role in promoting the platform's use for social good. She has authored several notable books, including "Twitter for Good" and "Design Your Day," which offer insights into leveraging social media for activism and optimizing personal productivity, respectively. Diaz-Ortiz is also recognized for her contributions to leadership literature, particularly through her co-authored works with Ken Blanchard. She is a sought-after keynote speaker and has been featured in major media outlets for her expertise in technology and social impact. Beyond her writing, she is committed to philanthropic endeavors and mentoring women entrepreneurs globally.

View Collection
Emma Watson's Book Recommendations

Emma Watson's Book Recommendations

Emma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.

View Collection
The Barefoot Investor's Book Recommendations

The Barefoot Investor's Book Recommendations

Scott Pape, known as The Barefoot Investor, is an Australian financial advisor and author, best known for his best-selling book The Barefoot Investor: The Only Money Guide You’ll Ever Need. Pape’s simple, no-nonsense approach to personal finance has helped millions of Australians get out of debt, build savings, and invest for the future. His advice is based on practical, straightforward strategies that focus on budgeting, long-term investments, and financial independence. Pape’s work as a financial educator has made him one of the most trusted voices in personal finance, and his book has become one of the most successful financial guides in Australia.

View Collection
Jordan Peterson's Book Recommendations

Jordan Peterson's Book Recommendations

Jordan Peterson is a Canadian psychologist, author, and professor, best known for his work on psychology, political philosophy, and cultural criticism. His book 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos became a global bestseller, offering advice on personal responsibility, order, and meaning in life. Peterson’s lectures, which cover topics like mythology, religion, and self-improvement, have garnered millions of views online, making him a polarizing figure in both academic and popular circles. He is known for his critiques of political correctness and his emphasis on individual responsibility. Peterson’s influence has sparked widespread debate about free speech, identity politics, and mental health.

View Collection
Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations

Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations

Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.

View Collection
Tony Hsieh's Book Recommendations

Tony Hsieh's Book Recommendations

Tony Hsieh was an innovative entrepreneur best known for his role as the CEO of Zappos, where he revolutionized online retail through a strong emphasis on company culture and customer service. Born on December 12, 1973, in Illinois, Hsieh graduated from Harvard University with a degree in computer science. He co-founded LinkExchange, which he sold to Microsoft for $265 million, before joining Zappos. Hsieh authored the best-selling book "Delivering Happiness" in 2010, outlining his business philosophy and insights into creating a positive workplace culture. His work has left a lasting impact on both the business world and the literature on corporate management and entrepreneurship.

View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.

View Collection

Frequently Asked Questions