In short more dramatic

“Every group of people I ask thinks the world is more frightening, more violent, and more hopeless — in short more dramatic — than it really is.” While Hans Rosling’s observation in his book Factfulness was meant to pertain to Big Picture issues like global poverty and equal access to education, I think it is equally applicable to the small things. And, for me at least, those small things are where I find the most opportunity to practice training my brain to react differently. Like this post, for instance. I’ve been wanting to do a video for a while now, but I kept putting it off. What if it was terrible? What if everyone laughed at how it compared to other artist’s #hyperlapse videos? Then I came to my senses. It’s just not that dramatic. It’s lettering. It’s Instagram. It’s an attempt. It’s not perfect. But it’s made. And now it’s in the world. Anyone else catch themselves ratcheting up the drama needlessly, even if it’s mostly in your own head?

Every group of people I ask thinks the world is more frightening, more violent, and more hopeless — in short more dramatic — than it really is

Published by Emily P.G. Erickson

Emily P.G. Erickson is a freelance writer specializing in mental health and parenting. She has written for popular digital publications, including Everyday Health, Health, The New York Times, Parents, Romper, WIRED, and more. Emily is a professional member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA) and the Association of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ). Previously, Emily researched PTSD for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and earned a master's in psychology. You can find the latest from Emily at www.emilypgerickson.com.

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