Toxic Positivity: How to embrace every emotion in a happy-obsessed world

Whitney Goodman

Jan 2022 · Hachette UK

About this ebook

'I really felt like I came away with a new perspective. This book will make you want to bin your gratitude journal in the best possible way' Stylist

'This trailblazing book will help you transform your perspective about positivity' Nedra Glover Tawwab, bestselling author of Set Boundaries, Find Peace

'Finally a book that explains exactly why 'positivity at all costs' backfires, and teaches us how to process our pain instead of pretending it doesn't exist.' Caroline Dooner, author of The F*uck It Diet

'The counterbalance to a world that preaches 'look on the bright side' whenever life gets tough' Elizabeth Earnshaw, relationship expert and author of I Want This To Work

Every day, we're bombarded with pressure to be positive. From 'good vibes only' and 'life is good' memes, to endless advice, to 'look on the bright side,' we're constantly told that the key to happiness is silencing negativity wherever it crops up, in ourselves and in others. Even when faced with illness, loss, breakups, and other challenges, there's little space for talking about our real feelings-and processing them so that we can feel better and move forward.

But if all this positivity is the answer, why are so many of us anxious, depressed, and burned out?

In this refreshingly honest guide, sought-after therapist Whitney Goodman shares the latest research along with everyday examples and client stories that reveal how damaging toxic positivity is to ourselves and our relationships, and presents simple ways to experience and work through difficult emotions. The result is more authenticity, connection, and growth - and ultimately, a path to showing up as you truly are.

Ratings and reviews

compared to most self help books, this book creates realism, and allows us to challenge our lives in order to grow. I enjoyed this book, where it gave me a perspective where people may be in their lives, and ready to challenge themselves or not. It was easy to listen to and enjoyable.

About the author

Whitney Goodman is the radically honest psychotherapist behind the popular Instagram account @sitwithwhit. She helps individuals and couples heal past wounds and create the life they've always wanted. Her work has been featured in dozens of publications, including The New York Times, Teen Vogue, NY Magazine and InStyle. Whitney lives in Miami, Florida, with her husband, son and their two dogs.