An interesting New York Times article debunks the power of positive thinking, to a point. The article describes research which found that people who simply think positively feel less energy, have less motivation, and accomplish less than those who don’t think positively (or negatively).

The research indicates that a combination of positive thinking and thinking about the realistic challenges that people will face as they pursue their goals led to more energy and motivation, and better results.

What’s the takeaway? Be positive, but also realize that it will be difficult.