Mental well-being is quality of life.

Why our minds need training

The modern world places demands on our minds in ways for which they were not evolutionarily designed. We are constantly processing information, comparing ourselves to others, planning ahead and reacting to uncertainty.

Three insights are particularly important here:

1. The brain does not automatically seek happiness

Its primary focus is on recognising dangers, solving problems and ensuring safety. This helps us survive, but in everyday life it can lead to stress, anxiety and dissatisfaction.

2. The mind is a prediction machine

Our thinking constantly simulates possible futures. This can be helpful, but it also leads us to get lost in worries, worst-case scenarios or rumination.

3. The mind consists of various internal networks

One part of us seeks safety, whilst another wants to grow, plan, feel or avoid. Many internal conflicts arise because these systems are active at the same time.

The better question

Instead of asking yourself, ‘Why am I not happier?’, a more helpful question might be:

How can I work with my mind, rather than against it?