Don't Try
Myth vs fact
Did Manson invent the backwards law?
Everyone credits Manson for this idea. He doesn't.
Quick check · tap an answer to continue
Lesson notes
State the backwards law and explain the mechanism by which chasing positivity backfires
Key points
- In the book, Manson himself credits the backwards law to the philosopher Alan Watts.
- Manson's job was to apply it: wanting to feel confident before a big presentation keeps reminding you that you feel insecure.
Definitions
- Backwards law
- Desiring a positive experience is negative; accepting a negative experience is positive
Myth: Mark Manson invented the backwards law.
Fact: Manson credits the backwards law to philosopher Alan Watts.
Takeaway: Backwards law: Watts's idea, Manson's application.
Quick check: Myth or fact: accepting a negative experience can be a positive one.
- Myth
- Fact
- Depends
That is the second half of the backwards law.
backwards lawAlan WattsApplied, not invented
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