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Feel Better, Live More · June 11, 2026 · 25m

BITESIZE | How to Stop Overthinking, Embrace Uncertainty & Enjoy Life More | Dr Ellen Langer #665

A short-form clip from Dr Ellen Langer's appearance on Feel Better, Live More exploring how our thoughts shape our lives and decisions. Dr Langer, a Harvard psychology professor with 50+ years of research on mindfulness and the mind-body connection, challenges the conventional approach to decision-making and offers a refreshing perspective on reducing overthinking, letting go of regret, and building confidence in choices.

This summary was generated from show notes and public descriptions, not from a full transcript review. Details may contain inaccuracies.

Curious

Rather than seeking perfect information before deciding, embracing the inherent uncertainty of the future allows us to make decisions with greater confidence and less regret.
Dr Langer's 50+ year body of research demonstrates that our thoughts and beliefs directly influence physical health, emotional well-being, decision confidence, and life outcomes.

Highlights

Overthinking Decisions Based on Counterfactual Thinking
We spend excessive time agonizing over decisions and regretting past choices because we imagine counterfactual outcomes—dwelling on what might have happened if we'd chosen differently.

Editorial

Applying mindfulness—paying attention to the present moment without judgment—to the decision-making process can reduce regret and overthinking.

References

The Mindful Body: Thinking Our Way to Chronic HealthEllen LangerCore work on mind-body connection and how thoughts shape health

Misc

Dr Langer is a recipient of three Distinguished Scientists awards
Over 50 years of groundbreaking research into mindfulness and thought
Author of twelve books spanning psychology, mindfulness, and health
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