Staying positive is important, but a lot of us are oblivious to the very real downside of obsessive enthusiasm – optimism bias. This cognitive bias causes us to overestimate our chances of success. Our brain tends to downplay big forces like competitors, timing and just plain old bad luck.

Optimism bias keeps us from recognizing when we’re on a doomed mission. Our own over-the-top enthusiasm lures us to ignore the possibility of failure. This means defeat blindsides us.

So how can you stay positive, but still avoid the downside of optimism bias? Check out this short video to learn specific ways to avoid optimism bias.